Due to the increasing number of vehicle fires, many drivers are now testing their onboard fire extinguishers. However, the small size of these extinguishers often proves insufficient for a full-blown car fire. In one recent incident, a driver named Zhang Dongwei found himself in a dangerous situation when his white Jetta started emitting black smoke from the engine compartment. He quickly grabbed the fire extinguisher from the trunk, but one unit wasn't enough. After using four extinguishers, the fire was finally under control—thanks to help from local police and nearby drivers.
Another case involved Ms. Huo, who witnessed a car on fire near an urban market. She tried using her fire extinguisher multiple times, but it ran out before the flames were fully extinguished. Only after borrowing two larger units from a nearby store did the fire stop.
Experts explain that vehicle fire extinguishers are only effective during the early stages of a fire. They typically weigh less than one kilogram and have a short discharge time—usually around 10 seconds to half a minute. These are meant for small fires, such as a burning seat cushion or a minor electrical spark. Once the fire has grown, the small amount of powder is no longer sufficient. In fact, even if the extinguisher is used properly, it may not be enough to put out a fire that has already spread.
Firefighters conducted a test to demonstrate this. Using a 5kg fire extinguisher, they were able to put out a simulated car fire in just 20 seconds. This highlights the importance of having a more powerful extinguisher on board, especially for vehicles that are at higher risk of spontaneous combustion.
According to regulations, all vehicles must be equipped with a fire extinguisher, but there are no specific standards for size or type. Some industry experts suggest that authorities should work together to establish clear guidelines for the capacity of onboard extinguishers. Additionally, regular inspections are crucial. Fire extinguishers need to be checked annually for pressure, tightness, and powder condition. However, some drivers report that during vehicle inspections, staff rarely check the validity of the extinguisher’s annual inspection.
Many new cars come with built-in storage compartments for fire extinguishers, but these are often too small for larger models. As a result, some owners worry about safety if they try to install a bigger unit. Others prefer to keep their extinguisher in the trunk, but this can cause it to move around during driving.
In terms of self-rescue, the first few minutes after a fire starts are critical. If you see smoke or flames, act quickly. Avoid opening the hood immediately if it feels hot, as this could introduce oxygen and worsen the fire. Instead, spray the fire extinguisher into the air intake grill for 10–20 seconds. If the hood is cool, open a small gap and insert the nozzle. Always aim at the base of the fire and maintain a safe distance—especially if the tires are on fire.
Remember: The best chance to save your car is within the first three minutes. After that, the fire becomes much harder to control, and professional help is usually required. Stay alert, stay prepared, and always know how to use your fire extinguisher properly.
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