Is a Fire Extinguisher Necessary in the Car?
4 Answers
Medium-sized and larger passenger vehicles, as well as hazardous goods transport vehicles, must be equipped with fire extinguishers. Below are specific details about car fire extinguishers: 1. Choose a dry powder or water-based fire extinguisher: When purchasing a car fire extinguisher, opt for one weighing 1-3 kilograms. Given the less-than-ideal storage conditions inside the car, dry powder or water-based fire extinguishers are recommended. 2. Usage guidelines: Before use, thoroughly shake the extinguisher several times to loosen the dry powder inside. Remove the safety pin, hold the nozzle (or the base of the canister for tube-less extinguishers), and aim the nozzle at the base of the flames. Press the handle firmly to release the dry powder from the nozzle for fire suppression.
As a veteran driver with 30 years of experience, I've always firmly believed that keeping a fire extinguisher in the car is absolutely essential. Fires can be caused by engine compartment issues or electrical short circuits, and without a fire extinguisher on hand, the consequences could be disastrous. I personally experienced a small fire once, and it was only thanks to the dry powder fire extinguisher in my trunk that I was able to quickly put it out and prevent a major disaster. I recommend choosing a small car fire extinguisher—they're not expensive, but make sure to check the production date to ensure it's still effective. Keep it in an easily accessible spot, like next to the driver's seat or in the trunk. Don't wait until an accident happens to regret not having one. Daily prevention costs little but offers great returns, and it's something every responsible car owner should do. Regularly pop the hood to check for aging wiring and avoid exposing your car to extreme heat—these small habits can significantly reduce risks. But a fire extinguisher is your last line of defense, and it's something you should never skip.
As a young person who just bought my first car, I prioritize convenience and safety. Although a car fire extinguisher isn't mandatory, it offers incredible value for money. I've checked some regulations – certain places abroad, like Europe and America, require them on highways, and some provinces in China also recommend their use. I spent a few dozen yuan on a portable fire extinguisher and keep it in the glove compartment on the passenger side. If my car starts smoking or I smell burning, I can deal with it immediately to prevent a small issue from becoming a big problem. You don't need to be an expert to use it – a regular dry powder type is sufficient. Just shake it every six months and check the pressure gauge. Since I commute frequently by car, if I get stuck in traffic and a fire breaks out, I'd really be in trouble without it. Simple routine maintenance is all it takes. Develop good habits to protect yourself and your car – don't neglect it out of laziness or complacency.
As a parent with children, I insist on keeping a fire extinguisher in the car—it's a matter of family safety. Although vehicle fires are rare, they can result from electrical faults or improper smoking. With my young child sitting in the back seat, I must take precautions. I choose a lightweight extinguisher placed under the center console and teach my family basic operation: stay calm if smoke appears, first pull the safety pin, then spray. Don’t cut corners—spending a little money buys peace of mind, especially during long trips. Combined with AC maintenance, regularly cleaning the cabin air filter ensures proper airflow and reduces fire risks, but a fire extinguisher is an essential emergency tool. A small investment can ensure greater safety.
