How important are fire extinguisher signs? Living in a first world country we often forget about simple things like fire extinguisher signs we see on a daily basis. I am just using these signs as an example because we see them everywhere but don’t really understand the importance of what they mean and how symbols play an important part in our daily lives.

If you have ever traveled to a foreign country where English is not the spoken language you will know how important symbols like signs are. Symbols convey messages without having to speak a language, therefore if you are too young too read or are illiterate, you are still able to gain meaning from the symbol. A symbol like a fire extinguisher sign is universal and that means whether your are here or in China you will be able to understand where to find a fire extinguisher in an emergency.

Reading and writing is a gift that we as people living in the first world take for granted. Many people in impoverished countries never get the opportunity to learn to read and write, either partially or at all. This makes symbols incredibly important for universal understanding of certain concepts which are integral to life.

Symbols generate associations in our minds, for example when you think of fire extinguisher signs you immediately think of a fire, in the home or in the workplace. This association does not need to be explained in most cases as symbols follow conventions. Most of the signs are governed by conventions which determine the way they look. By following certain conventions symbols are easily recognizable on a global scale. That means when you are traveling though you may not understand the language you are still able to understand certain essential things.

If signs did not follow conventions the world would be a confusing and dangerous place. If one location used completely different symbols on fire extinguisher signs to what you are used to seeing, you wouldn’t recognize them. By sticking to universal conventions in symbols a universal understanding is achieved. Just get on a plane and travel to a foreign language speaking country and then come back and tell me you don’t love symbols, they really can be a lifesaver when no one speaks English!

This is essential to make the world function as a better and safer place for everyone. Symbols are all around us in the world we live and just because we can read and write we often forget the importance symbols have in our lives. Just take a look at the desktop on your computer, see those little icons? Those are symbols and we associate and are familiar with those symbols in our daily lives. So, next time you see a fire extinguisher sign, don’t forget the how important that symbol really is!

Fire Extinguisher

Protect your home with Kidde Fire Extinguishers. We recommend at least one fire extinguisher for every 600 square feet of living space. This fire extinguisher contains monoammonium phosphate; a dry chemical extinguishing agent that is nontoxic; inhibits r

The Kidde FA110 Multipurpose Fire Extinguisher is UL rated 1-A:10-B:C, and it is designed to fight basic fires common to the home, including those involving fabrics, plastics, wood, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment. It is fitted with an easy-to-read pressure gauge that tells you the fire extinguisher is charged. A clear instruction label clearly shows the steps required to operate the extinguisher.

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