What should be regularly checked to ensure the effectiveness of a fire extinguisher?

Regular checks of the gauge pressure and inspection tags are essential for ensuring the effectiveness of a fire extinguisher. The gauge pressure indicates whether the extinguisher is charged and ready for use; if the needle is in the green zone, it signifies sufficient pressure, while another reading could indicate it's either overcharged or undercharged. Additionally, inspection tags show maintenance history and dates of the last inspections, ensuring that the extinguisher is compliant with safety standards and has been properly maintained. Regularly checking these aspects is critical for both compliance and safety, as an unmaintained extinguisher may fail to work effectively in an emergency.