Fire Fighting Equipment Signs Explained
Red fire equipment signs show people exactly where to find an extinguisher, hose reel, hydrant or alarm in the seconds that matter.
What fire equipment signs mean
A red square or rectangle with a white symbol always means fire-fighting equipment. These signs do not warn of danger; they point to the tools you need to fight a small fire or raise the alarm. In South African catalogues they are often listed with FB codes under SANS 1186.
HOSE
Fire hose reel
Marks the position of a hose reel cabinet or drum.
HOSE
Fire extinguisher
Fixed above each portable extinguisher.
HOSE
Fire alarm call point
Shows where to break the glass to raise the alarm.
Common fire equipment signs
| Sign | Where it goes |
|---|---|
| Fire extinguisher | Above every portable extinguisher, including those in vehicles bays and kitchens |
| Fire hose reel | On or above every hose reel |
| Fire hydrant | At each hydrant or hydrant valve, including outdoors |
| Fire alarm / call point | Above manual call points on escape routes |
| Fire blanket | Kitchens, canteens and labs where blankets are kept |
| Fire equipment direction arrow | Where equipment is around a corner or out of sight |
Where fire equipment signs are required
- Wherever fire-fighting equipment is installed, so it can be found quickly
- Along escape routes, near exits and stairwells where call points are fitted
- In warehouses and factories where racking or stock can hide equipment
- In kitchens, workshops, plant rooms and fuel or gas stores
The National Building Regulations (SANS 10400-T) and your local fire department set the fire protection rules for a building. Your fire plan will show where equipment and signs must go.
Frequently asked questions
What colour are fire equipment signs?
Fire equipment signs are red squares or rectangles with a white symbol. Red tells people the sign marks fire-fighting equipment.
How high should a fire extinguisher sign be mounted?
Mount the sign above the extinguisher so it can still be seen when people are standing in front of it or when the area is busy. Your fire consultant or local fire department may specify an exact height for your building.
Do fire equipment signs need to glow in the dark?
Photoluminescent fire equipment signs are strongly recommended, because people must find the equipment when smoke or a power failure cuts the lights. Your fire plan may require them.
Do you also sell the fire equipment?
Yes. We supply fire extinguishers, hose reel accessories and related equipment as well as the signs.
Order Your Signs Today
Express Print makes SABS-style safety signs on ABS, aluminium, Chromadek, Correx and photoluminescent vinyl, in Rivonia, Johannesburg. Tell us the sign codes and sizes and we will quote you.
