Who holds the ultimate responsibility for the care and use of fire extinguishers?

The owner or occupant holds the ultimate responsibility for the care and use of fire extinguishers because they are the individuals who have control over the premises and are directly accountable for ensuring safety measures are in place. This includes the proper placement, maintenance, and accessibility of fire extinguishers throughout the property.

Moreover, the owner or occupant is tasked with ensuring that fire extinguishers comply with relevant regulations and standards, such as those outlined by NFPA 10. They are responsible for regular inspections and ensuring that employees or occupants are trained in the use of these extinguishers, which is essential for effective emergency response in the event of a fire.

While other individuals such as security personnel or contractors may have roles to play in fire safety, they do not bear the ultimate responsibility, which lies with the owner or occupant of the building. The fire department's role is typically more reactive, responding to emergencies rather than being responsible for ongoing maintenance and readiness of fire safety equipment.