What should you do if the fire extinguisher feels heavy or appears damaged?

When faced with a fire extinguisher that feels heavy or is visibly damaged, having it inspected or replaced is the most prudent course of action. A fire extinguisher that is heavy may indicate that it is over-pressurized or malfunctioning, while visible damage can compromise its effectiveness during an emergency.

Inspecting or replacing the extinguisher ensures that it will function properly when needed. Fire extinguishers are critical safety devices, and any doubt about their operability should be taken seriously, as a malfunctioning extinguisher could lead to catastrophic results in an emergency situation.

While using the extinguisher immediately may seem like a quick solution, it's essential to ensure that it is safe to use first. Storing it in a cool, dry place might aid in maintaining its longevity but does not address the immediate concern of its functionality. Ignoring it simply because it has not expired overlooks the physical signs of potential failure, which can jeopardize safety. Therefore, having it inspected or replaced is the only choice that reliably ensures safety in the event of a fire.