In recent years, vehicle spontaneous combustion incidents have become increasingly frequent, prompting many drivers to start checking their car fire extinguishers. However, the limited capacity of standard onboard fire extinguishers often proves insufficient. In some cases, four or even more extinguishers are needed to control a small fire, raising concerns about their effectiveness and proper usage.
One such incident occurred when Zhang Dongwei was driving his white Jetta near Xinfadi. Suddenly, he noticed black smoke coming from under the hood. He quickly got out and opened the engine cover, only to find that the fire had already grown significantly. Using one fire extinguisher wasn’t enough to contain it. As he struggled, traffic officer Zhao Zhenkui, who was nearby, offered help. Together, they borrowed two more extinguishers from passing vehicles, and only after using all four did the fire finally die down.
Zhang recalled the event with relief: “If it weren’t for the police and those kind people helping me, the outcome could have been much worse.†Similarly, Ms. Huo encountered a similar situation. While driving past an urban market, she saw a car on fire. She tried using her fire extinguisher multiple times, but the flames kept reigniting. It wasn’t until someone brought over two larger extinguishers from a nearby store that the fire was finally controlled.
Experts explain that vehicle fire extinguishers are designed for use in the early stages of a small fire, not for fully developed blazes. According to Yang Yang, deputy squadron leader of the Dahongmen Fire Squadron, most onboard extinguishers weigh less than one kilogram and can only spray for 10 to 30 seconds. This makes them effective only for minor fires, like a cigarette igniting a seat cushion. Once a fire has spread and smoke is visible, the small amount of powder is no longer sufficient to put it out.
To demonstrate this, firefighters conducted a test by simulating a car fire using a scrapped Jetta. A 5 kg fire extinguisher was used, and within 20 seconds, the fire was fully extinguished. Yang emphasized that a 5 kg unit is far more suitable for real emergencies, as it can spray for up to two minutes, giving drivers more time to respond.
Currently, there are no strict standards for the size or type of fire extinguishers required in vehicles, despite the fact that they are mandatory during inspections. Industry experts suggest that the fire department, vehicle management agencies, and technical inspection centers should work together to establish clear guidelines on the specifications of these devices.
Additionally, fire extinguishers must be inspected annually by certified companies to ensure they are functional. However, some drivers report that during vehicle inspections, staff often overlook the expiration dates of these devices. One car owner, Mr. Zhao, admitted that his extinguisher had been in use for three years without any checks, yet it passed inspection without issue.
Ms. Li, a COOPER car owner, noted that new cars come equipped with fire extinguishers, often placed in small compartments. “I don’t think I could even replace it with a larger one,†she said, concerned about safety and space limitations.
Firefighters also advise that the best time to act during a vehicle fire is within the first 1–3 minutes, when the fire is still small. After 5 minutes, it becomes extremely difficult to control without professional help.
Key self-rescue tips include:
1. When smoke appears from the engine, check the temperature of the hood. If it’s hot, do not open it immediately—this could cause the fire to flare up due to oxygen intake. Instead, spray the fire extinguisher into the air intake grill for 10–20 seconds.
2. If the hood isn’t too hot, open a small gap and insert the nozzle.
3. Spray from 5–7 meters away, then move closer to 1–3 meters.
4. Aim directly at the base of the fire.
5. If the tires catch fire, keep a distance of at least 10 meters, as tire explosions can send debris flying.
Proper preparation and understanding of how to use your vehicle’s fire extinguisher can make all the difference in a critical moment.
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