i am training for being a vessel examiner and i believe it needs to be coast guard approved AND more importantly CURRENT, not out of date.

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I don't believe you'll find a reference for a "date" or for a frequency of inspection. The CG recommends the extinguisher be checked annually but I can't find a reference for any more specific inspection of same other than as you mentioned - CG approved.

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Caution: I have two brain cells. Sometimes they both work at the same time.

I am a safety supervisor for a towing company that pushes only petrochemicals...the towboats are listed as uninspected vessels........My requirements are the extinguishers have to be checked yearly, I use 10# ABC (Dry Chem) all over the boat. Galley, Bunkrooms, Barges, etc....AND i have a PORTABLE fire pump......gasoline operated......AND I have a fixed system (10hp per hose)........AND i have heat sensors located in the galley and engine room..........my point IS.....you DO NOT want to have a fire on a boat, it's the worst thing to happen! Hint taken?

p.s. my electronic room has 5lb CO2....I don't want to damage my equipment, i want to put the fire out!

Sandsailor,  Check the label on the units you are using.  If they are USCG Approved, it will say so there.  Be sure to take note of the part that says that the approval is "VALID ONLY WITH BRACKET NUMBER XXXXXXX"