Where to Place a Fire Extinguisher in the Car?
3 Answers
For personal safety, the fire extinguisher in a car is generally placed inside the cabin, commonly under the driver's seat or the front passenger's seat. Types of fire extinguishers: Dry powder fire extinguishers, ultra-fine dry powder fire extinguishers, carbon dioxide fire extinguishers, and water-based fire extinguishers, but dry powder fire extinguishers are the most commonly used. Avoid direct sunlight: Car fire extinguishers produced by reputable manufacturers are safe to keep in the car and are not prone to explosion. However, they should be kept away from high temperatures or direct sunlight to prevent hazards. Car owners should also pay attention to the expiration date of the fire extinguisher and stop using it once it expires.
I always keep a fire extinguisher under the passenger seat or in the glove box when driving. Why? Because it's right there at hand! If the engine compartment starts smoking or catches fire, I can deal with it within three seconds! I remember last time my friend's car started smoking on the highway. Because the fire extinguisher was locked deep in the trunk, he couldn't find it in time during the emergency. The flames reached the tires and damaged the brake system. I recommend using a magnetic bracket to secure it, preventing it from rolling around in the car. Also, choose a small dry powder fire extinguisher—around 1kg is ideal. Never store it in the rear of the trunk; if you get rear-ended and the door gets jammed, you won’t be able to retrieve it, making the situation even more dangerous. Regularly check the pressure gauge on the extinguisher and replace it if it’s expired. Safety first—every driver should make this a habit.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, the key considerations for fire extinguisher placement are accessibility and stability. I recommend positioning it behind the driver's seat or next to the center console, ensuring it's within reach without needing to move during driving. I've witnessed multiple cases where extinguishers stored in trunk corners caused frantic struggles during emergencies. Secure it firmly using nylon straps or dedicated clips to prevent sliding – road vibrations might accidentally trigger it. Opt for compact vehicle-specific models, avoiding bulky units. Avoid placing it where children can easily access or on high-temperature dashboards to prevent accidental discharge injuries. Conduct annual pre-winter checks to ensure functionality during crises. This small device can be lifesaving – never underestimate its importance.
