What does the number on a fire extinguisher indicate?

The number on a fire extinguisher indicates the amount of extinguishing agent present within the unit. This is crucial for determining how effective the extinguisher will be in combating a fire. For example, a fire extinguisher marked with a specific number tells users how much extinguishing agent they can expect to have at their disposal, which can directly influence their ability to control and extinguish a fire effectively. Understanding this specification helps individuals choose the right extinguisher based on the potential severity of a fire situation they may encounter. This knowledge is essential for safety and proper fire response, ensuring that the extinguisher has sufficient capacity to manage different types of fires effectively.