According to the Safety and Health Administration, employers are required to maintain portable fire extinguishers on their premises as part of their emergency preparedness plan. Extinguishers must be kept fully charged at all times so that the equipment is ready to be used.

A portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives; but portable extinguishers have limitations. Because fire grows and spreads so rapidly, the number one priority for residents is to get out safely.