According to the UK Fire service over 100,000 car fires occur every year in the UK, which is the equivalent to nearly 300 per day. While 65% of these are intentional, a large number of car fires do start accidentally, so it’s always best to be prepared in case you ever find yourself in the dangerous situation.
While modern cars are quite safe against car fires there is always the possibility that electrical faults, fuel system leaks, or even a collision can cause a car to go up in flames. The rise in electric vehicles add to the complexity of the issue, as EV fires can’t be dealt with in the same way as ICE car fires.
If you ever find yourself in the unpleasant situation of a car fire then you’ll want to ensure your safety, and the safety of any passengers first. After this, your priority will probably be to minimise any damage to your car by putting the fire out. If it is safe to do so then you can use one of a number of car fire extinguishers that are available on the market, but which is the best one for you?
Car fire extinguishers at a glance:
Editor's choice: Fire Safety Stick Hand Held Fire Extinguisher - Buy now from Demon Tweeks
Most Versatile: UKB4C - Buy now from Amazon UK
Easiest to use: FireChief Flamebuster 500 - Buy now from Amazon UK
Car fire extinguishers are perfect for carrying and storing in your car so there’s always the peace of mind. You can find loads of extinguishers on the market that are safe, effective, and affordable, but there are a few things to consider before going out and spending your hard-earned cash.
Things to look out for
• If you need to put out a fire yourself then only use a dry powder or foam extinguisher.
• If the fire is coming from the engine compartment, then do not attempt to open the bonnet – try to extinguish the fire through the grille or from under a gap in the bonnet.
• Never use water, as this could worsen the situation due to electrical wiring or the potential to spread burning petrol.
• If your car is an EV, then check to see if your extinguisher is safe to use on an EV. If in doubt, don’t risk it.
• Always stay safe. If you fire is too much to handle, then wait for the emergency fire service to arrive and safely deal with the blaze.
If you’re wanting to stay safe and be prepared in the event of a car fire then we recommend carrying a fire extinguisher on board your car, here are CAR’s picks of the best car fire extinguishers:
The best car fire extinguisher
The advantage of the StaySafe All-in-1 lies in its size. This lightweight aerosol fire extinguisher is around the same size as a drinks bottle, so it’s perfect for storing in a cup holder or a door bin – Just make sure you don’t try to drink from it when you need to quench your thirst. The fluid is non-toxic and eco-safe, so it ticks the environmentally friendly box.
As the name suggests, the StaySafe All-in-1 can tackle multiple types of fires including electrical, cooking oil, textile, petrol/diesel, and paper/card. Thanks to its small size and versatility the StaySafe All-in-1 deserves to be considered when looking for a car fire extinguisher.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Ideal shape to store in car
- Environmentally friendly
Cons
- Other extinguishers have better range
- Can be mistaken for drinks bottle – especially if in reach of children
Editor's Pick
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The Fire Safety Stick is slightly different to your traditional fire extinguishers. It doesn’t contain any liquid or gas, and it isn’t pressurised. It works by striking the base of the charger to create a jet-like vapour which is followed by the extinguishing substance that is then condensed into the environment, leaving behind no residue. The Potassium powder jet rapidly reacts with the oxygen in the air to stop the fire from spreading, as it is deprived of oxygen.
While Fire Safety Sticks are fairly new, they have a number of advantages over traditional fire extinguishers; They have a much longer life cycle so servicing, maintenance, and replacing them is something you won’t have to worry about that often. They weigh a considerable amount less than foam or powder extinguishers and are easy to use, and most importantly they can be used on A, B, C, F, and electrical fire types which means you won’t have to second guess yourself when the situation calls for it.
Pros
- Much lighter than traditional extinguishers
- Considerably longer shelf life, so less maintenance required
- Can tackle A, B, C, F, and electrical fire types
Cons
- Relatively short discharge distance
- Less value for money than traditional fire extinguishers
Most practical
Practicality is important when considering which fire extinguisher to go for – you’ll want to store it out of the way most of the time, but within reach if required during an emergency. The SH2400 comes with 400ml of nontoxic fluid that is effective in the event of a fire, and it’s safe for the environment.
The lightweight extinguisher is easy to carry and comes with a bracket which allows it to be mounted to the walls of a caravan, a motorhome, or anywhere appropriate in your car. If you’re looking to buy the SH2400 then you must be aware that it shouldn’t be used electrical installations.
Due to its easy-of-use and bracket mount the SH2400 is surely a contender when it comes to picking a fire extinguisher for your car.
Pros
- Ideal for cars and motorhomes
- Comes with a bracket for easy storage
- Environmentally friendly
Cons
- Not ideal for electrical fires
- 400ml is less than you can expect from other extinguishers
4.
UKB4C
Most versatile
If you want a versatile fire extinguisher that can tackle B and C classification fires including electrical fires, then the UKB4C should definitely be on your list. It is suitable for use on electrical equipment due to it being powder-based. It also comes with a safety wedge to avoid accidental use.
This fire extinguisher is available in two sizes; the 600g or the 1kg of powder deployed, and that makes its suitable for a number of different scenarios, whether it be a car fire or a small kitchen fire. We recommend going for the 600g to safely and easily store in the car.
Pros
- Comes in two sizes
- Comes with a safety wedge to avoid misuse
- Suitable for use on electrical fires
Cons
- Not suitable for A classification fires
- Slightly heavier than other extinguishers
Easiest to use
The FireChief Flamebuster 500 may be small but it packs a mighty punch when it comes to dealing with fires. At only 500ml it is easy to store in the car, but its ‘All in 1’ aerosol system can tackle A, B and F classification fires, which include common fires involving paper and textiles, electrical, cooking oil and petrol. It is also available in 750ml if you want extra peace of mind.
The FireChief Flamebuster 500 is easy to use, and especially suitable for people with limited mobility due to its light weight. Simply aim the extinguisher and squeeze the top like an ordinary spray. Thanks to its simplicity the FireChief Flamebuster 500 is on our list as the easiest to use in an emergency.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to store, available in two sizes.
- Easy-to-use
- Can tackle A, B and F classification fire including electrical fires
Cons
- Can be mistaken for another spray
- Slightly less value for money than other options
Best for handling
The CeaseFire extinguisher is rather simple and easy-to-understand formula: It’s a dry foam extinguisher that is suitable for Class A, B, and C fires. The main selling point of the CeaseFire is the easy grip handle that makes it rather ergonomic to use.
It's slightly heavier than others at 2.3kg, but it meets the EN3 Kitemark certification as well as P.E.D (Pressure Equipment Directive) and M.E.D (Marine Equipment Directive) stamps.
If you’re looking to buy the CeaseFire then you must be aware that it shouldn’t be used electrical installations.
Pros
- Suitable for A, B, and C fires
- Handle is easy to grip onto
- Has a mounting bracket for both home and vehicle
Cons
- Slightly heavier than others at 2.3kg
- Can't deal with all types of fires
Car Fire Extinguisher FAQs
Why do I need a car fire extinguisher?
Car fire extinguishers are an emergency item which can be crucial in unforeseen situations. No one wants to think about their coveted car going up in flames, but having a car fire extinguisher can certainly help lower the risk.
Where should I store a car fire extinguisher?
A car fire extinguisher should be stored anywhere that is easy to reach, like a glove box or a door bin. The last thing anyone wants is to not be able to get to their extinguisher – in a boot perhaps – when a fire breaks out.
How do I use a car fire extinguisher?
All extinguishers are different so it’s always important to read the instructions and safety information first. Most fire extinguishers are easy to use by simply squeezing the spray-top, but some come with safety features installed that need to be removed before use. Always make sure to stay safe when operating a car fire extinguisher, and if you have anu doubt then leave it to the emergency fire service.
How many car fire extinguishers should I carry?
As many as you want. The more the better, but it is important to store them in places that are ideal and easy to reach. Glove boxes, front and rear door bins are ideal, but if you want to place an extra one in the boot then that would be useful since most fire break out under the bonnet at the front of the car – or the back in a rear/mid-engine car.
Does a car fire extinguisher have an expiry date?
Yes, all fire extinguishers have an expiry date and must be regularly checked and maintained. It is important to ensure your fire extinguishers aren’t expired as they would not work properly when you need them the most. Always read the safety information and follow the product guidance.
What kind of car fire extinguisher should I look for?
There are plenty of fire extinguishers available on the market that are suitable for automotive use, but we would recommend a powder-based extinguisher that is suitable for electrical fires. You’ll often see A, B and C classifications which specify the types of fires that the extinguisher is suitable for. If you can find one that covers A, B and C then that’s ideal but at the very least B and C classification should be suitable.
Naveed Hussain is a commercial content writer at Bauer Media writing for Parkers and CAR. He enjoys anything with four wheels, and is always planning his next road trip.