What should be done after a fire extinguisher has been discharged?

After a fire extinguisher has been discharged, it is essential to ensure that it is fully recharged or replaced before it can be used again. This is crucial because discharging an extinguisher empties its contents, rendering it ineffective for future use. Fire extinguishers are designed to operate under specific pressure and to contain a specific amount of extinguishing agent; once these are compromised, the extinguisher cannot function properly in an emergency situation. Therefore, recharging by a qualified service or replacing it ensures that the equipment is ready and reliable for the next use, maintaining safety compliance and readiness for any potential fire hazards.