Where is the car fire extinguisher located?
4 Answers
Car fire extinguisher locations are: 1. Inside the glove compartment; 2. Beside the seat; 3. In the trunk. Vehicle fire extinguishers 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. Precautions for using fire extinguishers include: 1. Do not cover the fire extinguisher with items for easy access in emergencies; 2. Check the fire extinguisher pressure monthly; 3. Use the fire extinguisher correctly; 4. Fire extinguishers are only suitable for initial fire suppression; 5. Fire extinguishers have an expiration date and should be configured and replaced as required.
Nowadays most vehicles require carrying a fire extinguisher, and its placement is actually quite particular. The one in my own car is strapped to a bracket behind the front passenger seat, within easy reach. But it depends on your vehicle model—for regular sedans, it might be tucked under the driver’s seat or placed in the side storage compartment of the trunk. For SUVs, the most common spot is clipped into the storage compartment under the rear cargo floor. Never lazily toss it deep into the spare tire well—in case of a fire, you wouldn’t have time to dig it out. I’ve seen people use Velcro to secure it in the door storage compartment, which works quite well. The key is to fasten it properly to prevent rolling, and the location must allow quick access within seconds.
Last week, I came across a car owner's practical tip that was quite useful. She simply placed that small red canister vertically in the toolbox under the driver's seat, making it much more convenient to access than storing it in the trunk. Speaking of mounting, many new cars now come with factory-fitted dedicated brackets, usually positioned near the driver's or passenger's leg area. However, older vehicles might require a DIY solution like a Velcro mount, and it's best to install it near the door for easier access. Also, while regulations don't specify exact placement, traffic police do check whether it's securely mounted in an easily reachable spot during inspections. That's why I always use cable ties to fasten mine tightly for peace of mind.
Professionally speaking, the primary consideration for the placement of a car fire extinguisher is operational convenience. Common locations include the storage compartment under the driver's seat, the glove box compartment, and the side of the center console. From my own experience, it's absolutely crucial not to place it in high-temperature areas. I've seen cases where people stashed it under the hood, only for it to get deformed by heat—that's extremely dangerous. Nowadays, some cars feature a discreet compartment under the dashboard, which is quite practical—just bend down and it's right there. It's essential to regularly check that it's not blocked by clutter; those few seconds in an emergency can be life-saving.
