Why Every Car Should Have a Fire Extinguisher
Did you know that car fires account for a significant percentage of total fire incidents? According to the National Fire Protection Association, an estimated 287,000 vehicles caught fire in the United States in 2019 alone. Having a fire extinguisher in your car can make all the difference in case of an emergency. Here are five reasons why every car should have a fire extinguisher.
Preventing Catastrophic Damage
A small fire can quickly turn into a catastrophic event if left unattended. Having a fire extinguisher can help to control the fire and prevent it from spreading, potentially saving your car from extensive damage or destruction. This can be a lifesaver if you’re in the middle of nowhere or in an area where it may take firefighters some time to arrive.
Ensuring Safety for You and Others
When a car catches fire, the occupants are at risk of suffering burns, lacerations, and even smoke inhalation. A fire extinguisher can help to put out the fire and decrease the risk of serious injury or death. Moreover, it can be used to put out other vehicles on fire, making the roads safer for everyone around.
Peace of Mind
Having a fire extinguisher in your car gives you peace of mind, knowing that you’re prepared for any situation. Some fire extinguishers are compact and come with a mounting bracket, making them easy to install and access in case of an emergency. By having one in your car, you can feel confident that you can handle a fire if it arises.
Complies with Road Regulations
In some states, it’s mandatory to have a fire extinguisher in your car. For instance, in California and Oregon, drivers of certain vehicles are required to have a fire extinguisher of a certain rating. The National Fire Protection Association also recommends that every car should have a fire extinguisher, so it’s important to check your state’s road regulations to ensure compliance.
While we hope we never have to use a fire extinguisher in our cars, it’s always better to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. Having a fire extinguisher can prevent or minimize damage, ensure the safety of the vehicle occupants and others on the road, give you peace of mind, and keep you compliant with road regulations. Be sure to invest in a good quality fire extinguisher and mount it in an easily accessible location in your car.
