What is the purpose of maintaining a fire extinguisher?

The purpose of maintaining a fire extinguisher is to ensure it is charged, tagged with the last service date, and meets safety standards. This is crucial because a fire extinguisher that is not properly maintained may fail to work effectively in an emergency situation, potentially leading to disastrous consequences. Regular checks ensure that the extinguisher is filled with the appropriate extinguishing agent and that it is in good working order, allowing for immediate use when needed. The tag with the last service date indicates that it has been inspected and serviced as required, which is an important part of maintaining safety in any facility where fire hazards may exist.

Other options do not fulfill the essential function of a fire extinguisher. Decoration, using it as a seat, or storing it locked away without access defeats its primary purpose of providing a means to combat fire emergencies.