Identify the best places for portable fire extinguishers in your day care centre and follow directions in this section for proper use and maintenance.

Placement

It is important to be able to put out a fire as soon as it starts. This keeps the fire from spreading, and things can get back to normal at the day care centre as quickly as possible. Portable fire extinguishers in the hallways and near technical facilities provide occupants with an effective tool for fighting small fires. As a very general guideline, in a day care centre, you should be able to reach a portable fire extinguisher within a distance of 22m (75 feet). 

Use and maintenance

Portable fire extinguishers are only useful if people know how to use them. Although directions are printed on the extinguisher, it's a good idea to have a qualified trainer show you how to use an extinguisher in an emergency. 

If your day care centre does not already have portable fire extinguishers, there are many to choose from. A specialist can help you make the right choice, and will be able to help you with maintenance and inspections (required annually).