by Lina Frazier

Created on: September 19, 2008   Last Updated: June 04, 2011

A fireplace lends a comfortable ambiance to any home. Gathering around the hearth is a relaxing way to spend a winter evening among friends and relatives. It serves as a social focal point of a room , it's flickering amber glow is gentle and natural. There is some responsibility involved in maintaining this particular part of your home. Nobody wants their entire house to burn down because they failed to take a few, very simple safety precautions. First and foremost, the number one must have accessory for any fireplace owner is...you guessed it. A fire extinguisher.

While statistically, the majority of house fires begin in the kitchen, it's a simple nod towards common sense to have a good fire extinguisher handy near your fireplace. It's fairly simple to choose an effective extinguisher for your purpose. Extinguishers are divided into four categories: Classes A through D. The most appropriate extinguisher to use for your hearth would be a Class A. There are many different types of fire extinguishers you may choose to meet your needs. Many come in various sizes and use different materials with which to snuff the fire. Some use water, carbon dioxide, dry chemical solutions, or foam. If your fireplace is surrounded or framed by, valuable electrical equipment, then the best type of extinguisher to use would be called the Halon fire extinguisher.

This is a chemical compound that is ideal for use indoors because it leaves no damaging residue, and will not ruin any equipment that stands or sits nearby. While some people swear by a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher, this is really ideal for more serious, Class B and C fires. Of course, you could have a thousand fire extinguishers and they wouldn't do a thing if they've not been properly cared for and maintained. Make sure all extinguishers are inspected at least once a month. Be also careful that it's storage space is not hindered by clutter, so that in a pinch, it will be at the ready. Check the pressure gauge to ensure that the needle is in the green zone at all times. This lets you know that the pressure is at the correct level and will not malfunction as you use it. Make sure the nozzle and other parts are in proper working order, and the pin and tamper seal is intact.

Check the outside of the container to be sure there are no dents, leaks, chemical deposits, rust, etc. Making sure the area around the fireplace is free from flammable objects such as, newspapers, books and furniture is also helpful. The ideal distance is at least 2 feet away. If you feel so inclined , you can also jazz up the space around your fireplace by getting your fire extinguisher a cozy fire extinguishing cabinet, all it's own. Another added touch would be paying homage to nostalgia, by strategically placing an antique fire extinguisher somewhere about the room. I'd be willing to make a bet, that a beautiful vintage fire extinguisher made of a shiny copper or brass would make for an exceptional conversation piece. Antique fire extinguishers are not, as I previously thought- even hard to come by. They are an inexpensive touch that will be sure to add a lot of class to your decor.

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