In most office environments, extinguisher placement should be which of the following?

• A. In accessible locations along normal paths of travel, not behind doors or blocked by objects, ideally within 75 feet of any point
• B. Behind doors or blocked by objects
• C. On high shelves out of reach
• D. Only near building entrances

Answer: (A)

Extinguishers need to be easily reachable along normal paths of travel so people can grab one quickly in an emergency. If an extinguisher is hidden behind a door, blocked by furniture, or placed where it’s hard to reach (like high shelves), precious seconds are wasted, and the fire can grow before someone can use it. Keeping them within a practical distance—about 75 feet from any point—and along unobstructed routes ensures they’re accessible when panic and smoke reduce visibility.

Other placements run into problems: behind doors or blocked by objects can prevent fast access; high shelves render it unusable for most staff; and concentrating extinguishers only near entrances may leave interior areas without ready means to respond. The goal is quick, uncomplicated access, with clear signage and minimal chances of obstruction.