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22/05/2024 • by Chris Bird
Ensuring safety on the road involves more than just driving carefully. One aspect of vehicle safety is having a fire extinguisher in your vehicle. Whether you are a regular car driver, a van operator, a taxi driver or in charge of a heavy goods vehicle (HGV), a fire extinguisher is an essential safety device. This blog post will cover everything you need to know about vehicle fire extinguishers, including legal requirements for various vehicles.
Vehicle fire extinguishers are designed to be versatile and effective against a range of fire types. The extinguishing agents inside these devices are chosen for their ability to handle the specific hazards associated with vehicles.
Dry powder extinguishers contain a fine powder composed mainly of monoammonium phosphate or other chemical compounds. This powder works by coating the fuel and cutting off the fire's oxygen supply, effectively smothering the flames. Dry powder extinguishers are highly effective on fires involving petrol, diesel and other flammable liquids, which are common in vehicles.
They can also tackle fires caused by flammable gases like propane or butane, which might be used in camping stoves or vehicle heating systems. Additionally, dry powder is non-conductive, therefore it is suitable for electrical fires. This is good for fires that may have started in a vehicle’s wiring or battery. However, the powder leaves a residue that can be corrosive and difficult to clean up, potentially causing damage to vehicle components.
Foam fire extinguishers contain a water-based solution mixed with a foaming agent. When discharged, the foam forms a blanket over the burning material. This then cools it down and cuts off the oxygen supply. Foam extinguishers are particularly effective against fires involving petrol and diesel, making them ideal for vehicle fires where fuel spills are common. The foam can penetrate and seal the surface of flammable liquids, preventing re-ignition. The water content also helps cool the fire and surrounding area, reducing the risk of the fire reigniting.
CO2 fire extinguishers contain compressed carbon dioxide gas, which is released as a cold, white cloud. The gas displaces oxygen, suffocating the fire. CO2 extinguishers are excellent for electrical fires as they leave no residue and do not conduct electricity. This makes them safe for use on electronic equipment and wiring. They are also suitable for flammable liquid fires, such as those involving petrol or diesel. One of the main advantages of CO2 extinguishers is that they do not leave any residue, reducing the risk of damage to the vehicle's interior or electrical components. Additionally, the release of CO2 has a cooling effect, which helps in controlling the fire.
Water mist extinguishers release a fine spray of de-ionised water. The mist cools the fire and creates a steam barrier, which displaces oxygen. Unlike traditional water extinguishers, water mist is safe for use on electrical fires because the de-ionised water does not conduct electricity. Water mist is versatile and can be used on a range of fires, including those involving solid combustibles like fabric, paper and wood. The fine mist is non-conductive and can be used on electrical equipment without risk. This makes water mist extinguishers a good all-around option. However, water mist might not be as effective on large flammable liquid fires compared to foam or dry powder extinguishers.
For vans, particularly those used for commercial purposes, UK regulations recommend carrying an ABC dry powder fire extinguisher. A 2kg extinguisher, stored securely in the cab with a transport bracket, is generally sufficient for most commercial vehicles that do not carry dangerous goods.
For vehicles transporting dangerous goods (Carriage of Dangerous Goods - CDG), the required amount of dry powder is specified based on the vehicle's permissible mass. For example, a vehicle carrying up to 3.5 tonnes, will require a 2kg dry powder extinguisher in the cab. Additionally, another 2kg extinguisher should be stored securely elsewhere.
Taxis and private hire vehicles in the UK are legally required to carry a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit, as set by the local vehicle licensing authority under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976. The type and capacity of the extinguisher will be specified by the licensing authority. For private hire vehicles capable of carrying nine or more passengers, a 2-litre AFFF foam extinguisher is required. It is advisable to check with your local authority for any additional requirements.
Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) in the UK should be equipped with at least one portable ABC dry powder fire extinguisher. It needs to be suitable for tackling class A (solid combustibles), B (flammable liquids) and C (flammable gases) fires. The extinguisher should have a minimum capacity of 2kg and be stored securely in the cab using a transport bracket.
HGVs carrying dangerous goods must comply with CDG and ADR regulations, which specify the minimum amount of dry powder based on the vehicle's tonnage. For instance, an HGV between 3.5 tonnes and 7.5 tonnes must have a 2kg extinguisher positioned in the cab. Furthermore, the HGV must carry an additional 6kg extinguisher. This equals a total of 8kg. Larger extinguishers, such as 6kg or 9kg, can be secured to the vehicle's exterior using a vehicle box.
Water Mist extinguishers are recommended for caravans and motorhomes in the UK due to their ability to extinguish class A, B and C fires. They are also safe to use on electrical equipment. A 1-litre Water Mist extinguisher is ideal to use as they are small in size and they leave no residue after use.
Electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK require specialised fire extinguishers due to the unique risks posed by lithium-ion batteries. The LFX from Commander is a specialised fire extinguisher designed to handle lithium-ion battery fires. It is essential for EV owners to have such an electric car extinguisher on hand to manage potential battery fires effectively.
A vehicle extinguisher is a fire safety device designed to combat small fires that can occur in or around a vehicle. Vehicle fires can start for several reasons, and having a fire extinguisher on hand can help you quickly control the situation. Therefore, preventing significant damage or injury. Here is a closer look at the various scenarios where a vehicle fire extinguisher can be useful.
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Modern vehicles are equipped with various electrical systems, including complex wiring, batteries and electronic components. An electrical fault, such as a short circuit or a malfunction in the vehicle's electrical system, can ignite a fire. Electrical fires are particularly dangerous because they can spread quickly and are often difficult to detect early. A car fire extinguisher, especially one containing CO2 or dry powder, can effectively put out electrical fires. They also do not cause any further damage to the vehicle's electronics.
Engines can overheat for various reasons, including coolant leaks, faulty thermostats or malfunctioning fans. When an engine overheats, it can cause oil and other flammable fluids to ignite. An engine fire can escalate rapidly, engulfing the entire vehicle. Having a fire extinguisher in the car allows you to address an engine fire promptly. Therefore, saving your vehicle from extensive damage and keeping you safe from harm.
Fuel leaks are one of the most hazardous fire risks in a vehicle. Petrol and diesel are highly flammable, and even a small spark can ignite a fire if there is a fuel leak. Common causes of fuel leaks include damaged fuel lines, loose connections or punctured fuel tanks. A fire extinguisher designed to handle flammable liquids, such as a dry powder or foam extinguisher, can be instrumental in controlling a fire caused by a fuel leak.
Vehicle collisions and accidents can lead to fires due to ruptured fuel tanks, broken fuel lines or damage to the vehicle’s electrical system. In the chaotic aftermath of an accident, a fire extinguisher can provide a quick line of defence. It allows you to respond swiftly to any fire outbreak. This will help to protect the vehicle occupants and potentially prevent the fire from spreading to other vehicles or nearby structures.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular. However, they bring their own set of fire risks, particularly related to their lithium-ion batteries. Battery fires can occur due to thermal runaway, a condition where the battery overheats and ignites. These fires are challenging to extinguish with conventional fire extinguishers. For EV owners, a specialised lithium-ion fire extinguisher, such as the LFX from Commander, is essential. These car extinguishers are designed to tackle the specific hazards posed by lithium-ion batteries, providing effective fire suppression and preventing re-ignition.
Once you have chosen the right fire extinguisher for your vehicle, proper installation and maintenance are essential. Without this, the fire extinguisher may not work correctly if at all, when it is required in the event of a fire.
Firstly, securely mount the fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location. For cars, common mounting locations include the boot or under a seat. These spots are convenient because they are easy to reach in an emergency without obstructing the regular use of the vehicle. In larger vehicles, such as vans, HGVs and minibuses, the extinguisher should be within easy reach of the driver. This might involve mounting it on a bracket near the driver's seat or in a clearly marked compartment. The mounting bracket should hold the extinguisher firmly in place to prevent it from moving around while driving.
Regularly inspecting your fire extinguisher is essential to ensure it remains in good working condition. At least once a month, check the pressure gauge to ensure it shows the correct pressure level. An extinguisher with low pressure may not discharge effectively. Additionally, inspect the extinguisher for any signs of physical damage, such as dents, rust or corrosion. Make sure the nozzle is unobstructed and that the pin and tamper seal are intact. Regular checks can help identify potential issues before they become critical.
Fire extinguishers require regular servicing to maintain their effectiveness. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for servicing, which typically recommend an annual inspection by a qualified technician. During servicing, the technician will perform a thorough check, including verifying the pressure, examining the condition of the extinguishing agent and ensuring all components are functioning correctly. They may also perform a pressure test and replace any worn or damaged parts. Regular servicing helps ensure your fire extinguisher is ready for use in an emergency and complies with any relevant safety standards and regulations.
Knowing how to use your car extinguisher is important for effectively tackling a fire and ensuring your safety. The PASS technique is a simple and widely taught method to remember the essential steps for using a fire extinguisher.
The first step in using a car extinguisher is to pull the pin. This pin is a safety device that prevents the extinguisher from being accidentally discharged. To unlock the operating lever, grasp the pin firmly and pull it out from the handle. This action breaks the tamper seal and allows you to activate the extinguisher.
Once the pin is pulled, the next step is to aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. The base is where the fuel source is, and targeting this area is essential for effectively extinguishing the flames. Hold the car extinguisher upright and direct the nozzle towards the bottom of the fire. Avoid aiming at the flames themselves, as this will not be as effective in putting out the fire. Position yourself at a safe distance, usually around 1.5 to 2 meters away from the fire. This will protect you from heat and flames while ensuring the extinguishing agent reaches the fire.
With the nozzle aimed correctly, squeeze the lever slowly and evenly to release the extinguishing agent. Applying steady pressure is important, as it allows for a controlled discharge of the extinguisher’s contents. If you squeeze the lever too quickly or unevenly, you may deplete the car fire extinguisher faster than necessary or create a burst of agent that could disturb the flames without fully extinguishing them.
As the extinguishing agent is released, sweep the nozzle from side to side across the base of the fire. This sweeping motion ensures that the entire area is covered and that the fire is fully extinguished. Continue this motion until the fire appears to be out, making sure to cover all parts of the fire evenly. If the flames reignite, repeat the sweeping motion until the fire is completely extinguished.
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