What should you check for on the handle of a Water Fire Extinguisher?

When inspecting the handle of a Water Fire Extinguisher, checking for a visible CO2 cartridge is crucial because many extinguishers use a cartridge system to help propel the extinguishing agent. The CO2 cartridge is responsible for providing the necessary pressure to ensure that the water is effectively discharged when the trigger or handle is activated. If the cartridge is not visible or is missing, this could indicate that the extinguisher may not function properly in an emergency situation.

In contrast, while cleaning instructions, temperature indicators, and lifespan expiry are important maintenance considerations for fire extinguishers, they are not specific checks associated with the handle itself. Cleaning instructions typically pertain to the overall upkeep of the extinguisher exterior, temperature indicators assess the safety of the extinguisher under extreme conditions, and lifespan expiry concerns the time frame within which the extinguisher should be serviced or replaced. However, none of these are as immediate in terms of functionality as checking for the CO2 cartridge at the handle.