Is it necessary for small cars to be equipped with fire extinguishers?
2 Answers
There are no mandatory regulations on whether small cars must be equipped with dedicated fire extinguishers. However, during vehicle inspections, inspection personnel state that fire extinguishers, triangular warning signs, and other essential on-board equipment must be present. Some provinces have also issued requirements mandating the installation of fire extinguishers. Notes on using vehicle fire extinguishers: 1. When purchasing a fire extinguisher: Buy from reputable fire equipment stores, check their business license and product certification before purchase, and carefully observe the expiration date of the fire extinguisher. When selecting a vehicle fire extinguisher, in addition to paying attention to its appearance, car owners should also request the product certification, quality guarantee, and user manual from the seller, and obtain an invoice to ensure accountability in case of issues. 2. When placing the fire extinguisher: The fire extinguisher should be placed in a dry, well-ventilated, and easily accessible location, away from open flames, high temperatures, and greasy areas. Regularly check whether the safety pin is intact, whether the cylinder is deformed or corroded, and whether the nozzle is clogged with grease.
While studying traffic regulations, I found that whether small vehicles are required to carry fire extinguishers varies by region. In China, ordinary private cars (such as sedans and SUVs) are not legally mandated to carry fire extinguishers, but certain special vehicles like buses and large passenger vehicles must be equipped with them. If a traffic police inspection finds that a vehicle lacks a fire extinguisher, the owner may face fines or fail the annual inspection. Nevertheless, I still recommend everyone to carry a portable fire extinguisher, as it can help extinguish early-stage fires and prevent greater losses. For example, if smoke is detected in the engine compartment, timely action can save expensive repair costs. Additionally, having a fire extinguisher provides peace of mind during emergencies while traveling. Remember to choose an ABC-type dry powder fire extinguisher and place it in an easily accessible location.
