Importance of Fire Extinguisher in A School

Last Updated on August 4, 2024 by Abdullah Meraz

Fire safety in a school contributes the most. Fire safety should be established step by step, considering the whole premises. I was responsible for fire safety in a school, Tamishna High School, situated in Gazipur, Bangladesh. There were hundreds of students, teachers, and other staff. I had the opportunity to contribute to a significant corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative: establishing a school spanning from primary to secondary education levels.

The school’s fire safety comprises fire detection and protection. The premises were equipped with fire extinguishers and other related firefighting equipment. In this article, I included my experience in a school, considering the importance of fire extinguishers as much as I know. It will be more informative for you.

One of the fundamental elements of our fire safety strategy was the installation of fire extinguishers. This equipment served as the primary line of defense against potential fire hazards.

Schools are home to hundreds of young students, children, teachers, staff, guardians, and occasional visitors. Students are particularly vulnerable in the event of a fire. It is widespread that they may panic and act irresponsibly during emergencies, for their age and limited understanding. People who are involved in the school community should be concerned about fire safety, have the proper knowledge, and prioritize safety measures to prevent fires and minimize the risk of harm.

I want to point out that conducting a fire risk assessment on school premises to address the hazards that are present in the school area is crucial. School authorities should establish a comprehensive fire safety protocol and appoint a competent full-time fire safety officer.

The first step in ensuring adequate fire safety in the school is to conduct a fire risk assessment, preferably by a qualified fire safety professional, throughout the school premises. To purchase and install fire safety equipment, the assessment report should be considered as a key guideline.

Fire extinguishers are among the most critical tools in fire safety.  Hazards reported in risk assessments should be considered when placing fire extinguishers, following the guidelines detailed in the NFPA-10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers.

It is recommended that at least one portable fire extinguisher be installed in classrooms and offices. On the other hand, some areas of the school, such as science labs, electrical system rooms, workshops, etc., pose a higher fire risk. Multiple extinguishers should be placed in those areas to reduce risks and ensure effective fire suppression.

Installing fire extinguishers is the part of beginning of ensuring comprehensive fire safety. Regular inspection (monthly), annual servicing, and maintenance are essential tasks according to NFPA-10.

All the fire safety equipment in the school must be inspected regularly under a schedule and the fire safety officer is responsible for this job according to the safety manual provided by the school authorities. These inspections are relatively straightforward and can be carried out independently.

Here’s a breakdown of the inspection process:

•    It should be confirmed that the portable fire extinguisher is within 75 feet of travel on every floor.

•    Check that a portable fire extinguisher is within a 30-foot travel distance of commercial-type cooking equipment that uses cooking oil or animal fat.

•             Check for the presence of portable extinguishers and determine that they are located in conspicuous and readily available locations immediately available for use and not obstructed or obscured from view.

•             Confirm that access to extinguishers is clear.

•             Confirm that the hose (if so equipped) is intact and not obstructed.

•             Confirm the pressure dial reads in the green or “charged” area also be clear and readable.

•             Check that the pull pin is securely fastened within the handle and held in place by the tamper seal.

•             Extinguisher’s body visibly Check for dents or cracks.

•             Proper location and mount correctly should be confirmed for extinguishers.

•             Check for modifications that might reduce the extinguisher’s functionality.

•             Make sure that the fire extinguisher has a legible label.

•             Inspect the condition of tires, wheels, carriages, hoses, and nozzles for wheeled extinguishers.

Record keeping is considered as one of the main part of inspection, maintenance and servicing. The findings of the inspection, as well as any servicing and maintenance activities, should be recorded and kept up to date. These records should be aligned with the individual extinguishers to ensure comprehensive fire safety management.

The school authority should prioritize regular basic fire safety training and evacuation drills. A structured schedule, either yearly or half-yearly, should include monthly training sessions and drills.

The fire safety officer will teach teachers and staff members basic fire safety training. Additionally, refresher training sessions should be conducted periodically for those who have already received training. Which is very crucial.

The fire team will be divided into three categories: firefighters, rescue personnel, and first aid responders. Each team member will receive dedicated training based on their role.

Conducting at least one monthly evacuation drill on the school premises, involving all students, teachers, staff members, guardians, and visitors, is imperative. This drill allows students to understand how to respond when they hear the fire alarm, where to evacuate, and where to gather. The firefighters will also be well-trained to attend fire drill events. These practices are crucial for minimizing the risk of fatal injuries and deaths in the event of a fire. That optimizes safety measure of the school.

Lastly, ensuring the safety of a school from fires requires several vital measures. Equipping the school with adequate fire extinguishers installed according to NFPA-10 standards is essential. Periodical inspection, maintenance and servicing also include adequacy in fire safety. The fire team must also be well-trained and competent in firefighting, rescue operations, and first aid. By conducting refresher training enhance their skills and knowledge in these areas is crucial. Moreover, conduct regular evacuation drills according to the routine schedule, that helps to raise awareness among students and other individuals in the school community, that ensures preparedness for a fire emergency.