Where to Place a Fire Extinguisher in a Car?
3 Answers
Onboard fire extinguishers should be placed near the driver's seat in a location that is easily accessible, such as under the driver's or passenger's seat. Below are relevant details: 1. Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher: The principle of this extinguisher is chemical suppression, which interrupts the chain reaction of combustion. It offers high firefighting capability, comprehensive functionality, rapid extinguishing, electrical insulation properties, and good low-temperature performance, making it particularly suitable for use in factories, warehouses, and outdoor settings. 2. Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguisher: The mechanism of this extinguisher is suffocation, achieved by reducing the oxygen concentration around the burning material. Carbon dioxide as an extinguishing agent has excellent insulation properties. However, its drawbacks include a high extinguishing concentration, resulting in lower firefighting capability, making it more suitable for relatively enclosed spaces. It has poor resistance to re-ignition, and carbon dioxide is a moderately toxic substance. When the concentration of carbon dioxide in the air reaches 2%, it can cause discomfort.
I think placing the fire extinguisher under the driver's seat is the most practical. It's positioned low but out of the way, easily reachable with just a hand movement, ensuring quick response in emergencies. After years of driving, I've made it a habit to secure it firmly with Velcro or straps to prevent it from sliding and interfering with foot operations. I don't recommend keeping it in the trunk—if the engine catches fire, running to the back is too slow and unsafe. The door pocket is another option, but it's prone to being kicked or falling out. Opt for a small dry powder fire extinguisher, and regularly check its expiration date and pressure to ensure it's always ready for use. Safety comes first—this small habit can be life-saving, so don't overlook it.
As a family user, I chose the fixed position behind the center armrest. The reason is simple: both the driver and passengers can easily access it, especially when there are children in the back seat, allowing quick operation in case of danger. The position shouldn't be too high to block the view, nor too low to cause tripping. I use a suction cup mount to secure it firmly without damaging the interior. Placing it in the glove box is too deep and wastes time searching during emergencies. The trunk is only suitable for backup storage, not as the primary location. Remember, the fire extinguisher should be lightweight and easy to access, check monthly to ensure it's in good condition, and make fire safety awareness a daily habit.
