If an extinguisher's label is missing or damaged, what is the recommended course of action?

• A. Do not use until inspected.
• B. Continue using as is.
• C. Paint over the damage.
• D. Use it on any fire.

Answer: (A)

When an extinguisher’s label is missing or damaged, you lose the essential information that tells you what type of fire it’s suited for, how to operate it, and its maintenance status. Without that guidance, you can’t rely on it in an emergency, so the safe procedure is to take it out of service and have a qualified technician inspect it, replace or repair the unit if needed, and ensure the label is restored or updated before returning it to use.

Continuing to use it as is risks applying the wrong extinguishing agent or using the wrong technique, which can fail to stop the fire or cause harm. Painting over the damage does not recover the missing information and could hide other issues. Using it on any fire ignores the specific class ratings and may be dangerous or ineffective.