Firefighting equipment must be maintained and inspected regularly to ensure that it remains functional and reliable during an emergency. Proper maintenance reduces the possibility of equipment failure and helps protect life, property and the environment. The inspection programme should be based on the type of equipment, manufacturer’s instructions, applicable fire-safety regulations and the hazards present in the premises. Fire extinguishers require frequent visual inspection to ensure that they are located in their designated positions, are easily accessible and have not been damaged or obstructed. The extinguisher should be checked for leakage, corrosion, dents, broken seals and missing safety pins. The pressure gauge, where provided, should indicate the correct pressure. The label and operating instructions must remain clearly visible. Extinguishers should also be examined to confirm that the correct type and capacity are available for the particular class of fire.