My building’s Fire Extinguisher Was *Locked* During an Emergency – Don’t Let This Happen to You

Hey Reddit, I just survived a near-disaster, and I need to share this with you because it could save lives. A few days ago, my bathroom caught fire due to a faulty geyser plug. In a panic, I grabbed the fire extinguisher, ready to put out the flames—only to find the safety pin **locked with a zip tie**. Yes, you read that right. A *zip tie*. In that critical moment, I had to frantically search for a knife, cut the tie, and then use the extinguisher. Thankfully, I managed to control the fire, but those wasted seconds could have cost me everything. This isn’t just a rant—it’s a wake-up call. Fire extinguishers are **not decorative items**. They’re life-saving tools, and locking them up (even with something as simple as a zip tie) is a dangerous practice that puts lives at risk. ### Here’s What You Need to Do Right Now: 1. **Check Your Fire Extinguishers**: Make sure the safety pin isn’t obstructed and the extinguisher is easily accessible. 2. **Inspect Your Society’s Equipment**: If you live in an apartment complex, take 5 minutes to verify that all extinguishers are functional and not locked or tied up. 3. **Spread the Word**: Talk to your neighbors, building management, or society administration. Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility. Don’t wait for a tragedy to realize how important this is. A simple check today could save lives tomorrow. Stay safe, Reddit.