What is the rule of thumb regarding the number of fire extinguishers in a building?

The correct answer illustrates the general guideline for the placement of fire extinguishers in a building, which suggests having one extinguisher for every 3,000 square feet or at least one on each floor. This rule is based on ensuring adequate coverage and accessibility to fire extinguishers in case of a fire emergency. By having at least one extinguisher on each floor, the safety of occupants is enhanced, as they can quickly access the extinguisher closest to them when needed, providing them with the means to control small fires before they escalate.

The rationale behind this guideline stems from the need to balance the number of fire extinguishers with the potential risk of fire in different areas of the building. It is important to ensure that all areas of a building are adequately protected without overcrowding it with too many extinguishers, which can lead to confusion during an emergency.

The other choices present either a lower or higher ratio of extinguishers per square footage that may not adequately meet fire safety standards or leave some areas under-protected. Maintaining a coverage of one extinguisher for every 3,000 square feet helps to ensure a reasonable safety net without overwhelming the space.