fire extinguisher???

[herky]

While getting the boat ready for the new season I noticed that the gauge on my fire extinguisher says empty. Can I get it refilled or do I need to get a new one and where would I do either. I was at Cabelas the other weekend and I look around but didn’t see any for sale.

Thanks

[hoggs222]

Lowes sells them for $10-$30

[Fish Head]

A few years back, someone who works in the industry told me every couple months you should turn your fire extinguisher upside down and tap the bottom a few times. This will keep your fire extinguisher working correctly for years.

Just thought I would pass it on.

[Powerstroke]

I certainly wouldn't say that turning your extinguisher upsidedown will do much.

They told you that cause most people don't bother to touch them once they've been mounted and the old chimical would settle to the bottom and pack down.

To Herky,

First of all I applaud you for checking you extinguisher. If your extinguisher is more than 5-10yrs old then get a new one. Its not worth the price to get them refilled if its that old.

If its newer, and not the "kiddie" brand or other cheapie kind then look in the phone book and find someone close to you who services fire extinguishers. Usually a local hardware store will point you in the right direction. Its $10-20 depending on how big it is.

If you need a new one get an "ABC" type extinguisher in the largest size you can fit where you're mounting it. When you need one they never spray enough to make you feel safe about putting out the fire. LIke I said, stay away from the "kiddie" brand or other similar cheapies. The better ones will have metal components (not plastic) and can be refilled.

From there, you need to check it every year and take it to be inspected and/or recharged every 3-5 yrs. THe people who service them will put a date on it when it gets checked.

Eden Prairie Fire Dept.

Eden Prairie, MN