Is a Fire Extinguisher Required on the Highway?
2 Answers
Traffic regulations do not mandate that private cars must carry a fire extinguisher on the highway, but some cities require vehicles to be equipped with one, otherwise fines may be imposed. Below are the regulations regarding fire extinguishers for various vehicles: Private Cars: There is no strict requirement for private cars, but during the annual vehicle inspection, a fire extinguisher must be present in the car; otherwise, the inspection will not be passed. For safety reasons, it is recommended to carry one. Medium (and above) Passenger Vehicles: Vehicles should be equipped with a compliant triangular warning sign; medium (and above) passenger vehicles and hazardous goods transport vehicles must carry a fire extinguisher and fire-fighting equipment within their validity period. The fire extinguisher should be securely installed on the vehicle body and easily accessible. Violators will be warned or fined.
From a legal and regulatory perspective, carrying a fire extinguisher on highways is not a mandatory requirement for private cars in most regions of China, with the main focus being on specific vehicle types such as buses and trucks. However, I believe adhering to these rules is crucial to avoid fines or accident liabilities. I've checked online and found that there might be slight variations between different provinces and cities. For example, some highway checkpoints may conduct random inspections, and non-compliance could potentially affect passage. Ordinary drivers don’t need to worry about carrying one daily, but it’s much safer to have one during long trips or when the vehicle is carrying heavy loads. It’s advisable to check the National Road Traffic Law and local regulations to understand specific requirements. Taking the time to prepare is always better than regretting it after an incident. Moreover, car fire extinguishers are now cost-effective and easy to purchase. Safe driving isn’t just about speed—it’s about comprehensive prevention.