We will update this webpage from time to time. Be sure to check it out regularly for updates.
What's New
Information related to the latest amendment to the "Fire Service (Installations and Equipment) Regulations"
Due to the latest amendment to the “Fire Service (Installations and Equipment) Regulations (Cap.95B)” (FS(IE)R) which came into effect on 1 November 2023, residents who have received fire extinguishers and fire blankets distributed to them earlier by the Fire Services Department for installation in domestic premises are exempted from the statutory duty as an owner of such portable firefighting equipment to keep it in efficient working order at all times and to have it inspected by a Registered Fire Service Installation Contractor at least once every 12 months under the FS(IE)R, as such equipment is installed in domestic premises and it is not required by or pursuant to law to be installed in such premises.
In addition to owners of fire extinguishers and fire blankets in the above-mentioned case, residents who have received stand-alone fire detectors distributed to them by the Fire Services Department for installation in domestic premises have been exempted from the same statutory duty as an owner of such equipment since 1 September 2021.
For enquiries, please contact our staff at 2170 9632.
Background
The FSD distributed ‘three treasures for fire protection’ to needy residents in old buildings in 18 districts as part of its efforts to improve fire safety of these buildings.
Fire Extinguisher and Fire Blanket
Fire extinguishers and/or fire blankets are designed to quickly contain incipient fires when it is safe to do so.
Fire extinguishers come in a wide variety of types, major ones include the carbon dioxide type, water type, dry powder type, clean agent type and foam type. Dry powder fire extinguisher is preferred in a general household setting as it is effective in tackling various types of fires, such as those involving flammable liquids, metals or electrical appliances.
Self-Checking of Portable Firefighting Equipment
Domestic users should regularly check their owned portable firefighting equipment. For portable fire extinguisher, check whether it is rusted, leaking or damaged, etc., to ensure that it is always in efficient working order. For fire blanket, check whether there is any damage. The Fire Services Department encourages members of the public to regularly check their portable firefighting equipment to ensure their effectiveness.
Points to note when conducting visual checking of portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets are as follows:
Portable Fire Extinguisher
I. Check the hose, nozzle, lever and safety pin of the fire extinguisher to ensure that they are in good condition (i.e. no rust, deformation or damage, etc.);
II. Check the pressure gauge (if applicable) to ensure that the fire extinguisher has enough pressure and no leakage.
Gently shake the fire extinguisher on a regular basis to prevent clumping of the dry powder therein. Clean the fire extinguisher and its parts with water and a towel.
Fire Blanket
Stretch the fire blanket out and check for any damage.
When needed, clean the fire blanket in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. If the manufacturer's instructions are not available, soak the fire blanket in detergent overnight and then gently wash and brush it with warm water. Do not machine wash or dry clean.
Handling of Damaged Fire Extinguisher
Stop using a fire extinguisher immediately if it is found to be significantly rusted, leaking or damaged. If the fire extinguisher needs to be recycled, hand it over to a fire station for proper handling.
You may find more information on the use and maintenance of fire extinguishers and fire blankets in the video below.
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Video on Use and Maintenance |  |
Stand-alone Fire Detectors
Stand-alone fire detectors are designed to give early warning to occupants in premises at the incipient stage of a fire, enabling their timely evacuation before the escape route becomes unsafe due to the effects of smoke and heat. The Fire Services Department encourages members of the public to install battery-operated fire detectors in their premises to enhance building fire safety and provide better protection of life and property in case of fire.
You may find more information on stand-alone fire detectors, including their installation, use and maintenance in the videos and guidelines below.
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Video on Installation | |
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Video on Maintenance | |
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Stand-alone Fire Detector General Guidelines on Purchase, Installation & Maintenance |  |