If a private residence has a single fire extinguisher, where should it be located?

If a private residence has a single fire extinguisher, where should it be located?

• A. Living Room
• B. Kitchen
• C. Bedroom
• D. Garage

Answer: (B)

When choosing where to place a single extinguisher, you want it where it will do the most good quickly and where you can reach it safely. In homes, the most common small, controllable fires start in the kitchen—grease or oil fires on the stove, or a cooking appliance that can flare up fast. Putting the extinguisher in the kitchen means you can grab it while you’re nearby cooking, address the fire early, and still have a clear path to exit if the situation worsens.

Place it on a wall near an exit so you can retreat if flames grow, not inside a cabinet or out of easy reach. Keep it away from direct heat sources and ensure it’s a type rated for household fires (such as an ABC or BC extinguisher). This setup prioritizes quick response to the most likely hazard while preserving safe egress.