What should be checked regularly to ensure a fire extinguisher is functioning well?

Regularly checking the pressure gauge of a fire extinguisher is essential for ensuring it is functioning properly. The pressure gauge indicates whether the extinguisher is charged and ready for use. If the gauge shows low pressure, it means the extinguisher may not operate effectively in an emergency situation, which can be critical during a fire. A fully charged fire extinguisher will typically show green on the gauge, indicating it is within the acceptable pressure range.

While other factors, such as the manufacturer date, label color, and location, are important for overall maintenance and safety compliance, they do not directly indicate the operational status of the extinguisher as clearly as the pressure gauge does. Evaluating the gauge ensures you can trust that the extinguisher will work when you need it most.