Is it mandatory to have a fire extinguisher in a car?
4 Answers
It is mandatory to have a fire extinguisher in a car. Vehicle fire extinguishers are specifically designed for car fires and are categorized into: 1. Aerosol fire extinguishers; 2. Dry powder fire extinguishers; 3. Ultra-fine dry powder fire extinguishers; 4. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers; 5. Water-based fire extinguishers. The usage method of a fire extinguisher is: 1. Carry the extinguisher to a spot near the fire, standing upwind; 2. Pull out the safety pin; 3. Hold the nozzle firmly with one hand; 4. Press the handle tightly with the other hand; 5. Aim the nozzle at the base of the flame and sweep. The storage locations for vehicle fire extinguishers are: 1. Place it within easy reach; 2. Secure it properly in the trunk.
I've been driving for over a decade and have witnessed several cases of vehicle spontaneous combustion. Although traffic regulations don't mandate private cars to carry fire extinguishers, I always keep a dry powder extinguisher in my car. It's placed under the driver's seat for easy access. Last time on the highway when I saw smoke coming from the car ahead, I immediately pulled over to the emergency lane to help put out the fire. Fortunately, timely action prevented a major accident. These things cost just a few dozen yuan each, and you just need to regularly check that the pressure gauge needle stays in the green zone. I recommend all new drivers keep one handy - when it comes to safety, you can't afford to wait until an accident happens to regret not being prepared.
I recently researched relevant regulations when helping a friend with vehicle annual inspection. Currently, there is no national mandatory requirement for ordinary private cars to carry fire extinguishers, but note three exceptions: school buses, passenger coaches, and hazardous material transport vehicles must be equipped. Additionally, regulations vary by province and city, with some localities recommending supplementation during annual inspections. From my own experience, high summer driving temperatures, especially in older cars with aging wiring, pose significant risks, so I recommend keeping a 2kg dry powder fire extinguisher near the driver's seat. Every year before summer, I check the expiration date and replace it if expired.
Those concerned about vehicle safety will recommend carrying a fire extinguisher. It's most effective in the early stages of a vehicle fire, and a standard dry powder extinguisher can handle flames caused by fuel or electrical issues. When preparing, pay attention to three points: choose products from reputable manufacturers, secure them in easily accessible locations, and regularly check the pressure gauge. Personally, I keep a portable one in the front passenger storage compartment and a household-sized one fixed in the trunk. Fire extinguishers typically have a lifespan of 5 years, so replace them promptly when expired. In case of a fire, stay calm—first stop the vehicle safely, then use the extinguisher, paying attention to wind direction and spraying distance.
