Will a Fire Extinguisher Explode If Placed in a Car?
2 Answers
Placing a fire extinguisher in a car will not cause it to explode. Here are some precautions for car fire extinguishers: 1. Purchase fire extinguishers from reputable manufacturers to prevent potential accidents from the source. 2. After six months of use, regularly check whether the dry powder has clumped or if the carbon dioxide gas in the storage cylinder has leaked. The method is to observe the internal pressure indicator on the extinguisher, which is usually divided into three zones: green, yellow, and red. If the pointer is in the green zone, the extinguisher can be used normally; if it is in the yellow zone, it indicates the extinguisher is nearing the end of its usable life; if the pointer points to the red zone, it means the internal pressure has leaked and the extinguisher can no longer be used. 3. Check whether the safety pin of the extinguisher is intact, whether the cylinder is deformed or corroded, and whether the nozzle is clogged with grease or dirt.
I've been driving for over a decade and always keep a fire extinguisher in my car, never seen one explode. But there is indeed a risk, like in summer when car temperatures can soar above 60°C. Fire extinguishers are pressurized canisters, and high temperatures can increase the pressure, potentially causing them to rupture or even explode. The key is proper storage: choose a cool, ventilated spot, avoid placing it on the dashboard or in the engine bay—those areas get extremely hot. The trunk is ideal, as it's slightly cooler. Also, check it regularly to ensure the pressure gauge needle is in the green safety zone, and look for dents, rust, or expiration dates. My neighbor once had a minor leak from an expired extinguisher left in direct sunlight—it didn’t actually explode, but it gave him quite a scare. Safety first: choose a quality brand product and maintain it annually for peace of mind. Overall, just be careful and you’ll be fine.
