Kidde Fire Extinguisher Recall Do you have one in your RV?

Padlin wrote:
I wonder if this settling issue might be an internet myth. A friend wrote to Kidde about this, whoever responded stated there is no need to shake or rap on them. Not much of an answer, but that was their response.

Mine is/was 4 years old, I've never touched it. Replaced it this summer with a bigger one so we fired off the old one just to see if it'd work. Worked fine although it only lasted 10 seconds. Makes a heck of a mess too.

No, it's NOT a myth..:R

The "powder" in a dry chemical extinguisher will "pack down" if it is left stationary for an extended period of time. Usually this doesn't happen - but simple inverting with a tap will prevent same.
It's also essential that the powder remains "dry".
(And obviously - check the gauge to verify the extinguisher remains charged!)

When extinguishers are serviced, the powder is replaced and the extinguisher recharged. it's usually req'd annually for occupancies where the extinguisher/s are required.

Since the above service doesn't apply to your "personal" extinguisher/s, the invert and tap is a good idea.

The "adult size" (poor descriptive term!) extinguisher should have at least a 2A 10 BC rating which is usually a 10 lb extinguisher.

BTW - Although they may "meet code" where *required*, extinguishers with plastic nozzles and handles have *not* been the choice of fire folks -OR- service companies for years!!

Many extinguisher service companies will *not* service them for the same reason as the recall. Plastic components are just not reliable for repeated maintenance and service, and have caused injury to the folks doing the service when being re-pressurized.

Consequently, often small business owners who only need one 2A 10 BC extinguisher will simply visit the local big box store and buy a new one every year (costs less than paying the service company for annual service and/or a quality extinguisher with metal components).

It's not difficult -or overly expensive- to find/purchase dry chem (dry powder) extinguishers with metal components...:W



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