Is it necessary to have a fire extinguisher in the car?
3 Answers
It is necessary to have a fire extinguisher in the car. The locations to place the fire extinguisher include: 1. Inside the glove compartment; 2. Next to the seat; 3. In the trunk. The storage environment temperature for the car fire extinguisher should be within the range of -10 to 45 degrees Celsius, and the placement location should be kept dry and ventilated to prevent the fire extinguisher from getting damp and corroding. Precautions for using the fire extinguisher are: 1. Do not cover the fire extinguisher with items; it should be easily accessible for quick retrieval; 2. The fire extinguisher can only be used to put out initial fires; 3. Use the fire extinguisher correctly; 4. Check the pressure of the fire extinguisher once a month; 5. Fire extinguishers have an expiration date, so they should be configured and replaced as required.
Having driven for decades, keeping a fire extinguisher in the car is absolutely essential. You see, vehicle fires are quite common, caused by aging electrical systems, fuel line leaks, or collision impacts. Once a fire starts, it spreads frighteningly fast. Without a fire extinguisher, waiting for the fire department could mean the entire car burns out or even endangers lives. A small dry powder extinguisher is sufficient—keep it in the trunk for easy access, and it only costs a few dozen yuan. I've seen too many cases, like my neighbor's car smoking, where timely use of the extinguisher prevented an explosion. Regularly check its expiration date to ensure it's still effective. Safety is no small matter—spending a little for peace of mind is worth it.
Some may consider it unnecessary, but as a long-distance driver, I emphasize the importance of complying with regulations. In many places, such as certain cities, it's mandatory to carry a fire extinguisher, otherwise, you risk fines or penalty points during police spot checks. This isn't just about passing inspections—consider emergencies like engine overheating, battery short circuits, or oil leaks after accidents. Without an extinguisher, you'd have to watch helplessly as your car burns. Keep one in the glove compartment or under the seat for quick use in emergencies. Choose a certified brand and avoid cheap, substandard products. Check the pressure gauge every six months to ensure it's functional. The car is yours, and safety responsibility can't be delegated—self-rescue is most reliable in critical moments.
