Which extinguishers to use for different types of fire
While fire extinguishers aren’t a legal requirement for private cars, caravans or motorhomes in the UK, it’s always a good idea to have one in case of an emergency.
It’s also recommended that you take a fire extinguisher with you whenever you drive in Europe.
Types of fires
There are six classes of fire which are determined by the fuel powering them. Most fire extinguishers can only be used for certain classes of fire, and this will be displayed on the extinguisher.
If you already have a fire extinguisher in your vehicle or plan on buying a new one, make sure you know which classes of fire it can be used for.
- Class A: Fires involving solid materials such as paper, wood, straw and textiles
- Class B: Fires involving liquids such as petrol, diesel, engine oil, solvents and greases (not including cooking oils)
- Class C: Fires involving gasses such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and natural gas
- Class D: Fires involving metals such as sodium, magnesium and potassium
- Fires involving ‘live electrics’ (formerly Class E)
- Class F: Fires involving cooking fats and oils
Best car fire extinguishers
So, which car fire extinguisher should you use? This will depend on which vehicle you are using.
For cars, a dry powder, category ABC fire extinguisher is most suitable.
However, they’re not recommended for confined spaces and should be avoided for caravans or motorhomes. Instead, an AFFF foamed-based extinguisher is best.
Whichever extinguisher you choose, make sure it is manufactured in accordance with BS (EN) 3 and is either BSI, LPCB, or BAFE approved. All fire extinguishers sold by Halfords have this approval.
Here’s a selection of vehicle-suitable fire extinguishers, including the Firexo range. Market-leading experts Firexo have developed new fire extinguishers which can be used on every type of fire. Created after years of research, they remove unnecessary choices in the case of a fire, as you no longer need to question whether you have the right extinguisher or not.
Fireblitz 1kg ABC Fire Extinguisher – suitable for cars
- Class A fires
- Class B fires
- Class C fires
- Live electrics fires (formerly Class E)
This multipurpose and easy-to-use fire extinguisher is suitable for vehicles, homes, offices, boats, and other commercial and industrial uses.
Firexo 2-litre All-Fires Extinguisher – suitable for all vehicles
- Every class of fire
Firexo extinguishers are the only ones on the market that can be used for all types of fires, helping to protect any vehicle, garage, home or business.
Firexo 500ml All-Fires Extinguisher – suitable for all vehicles
- Every class of fire
Designed to be portable, this option can easily be stored in a glove box or toolbox and should be an essential part of your vehicle, camping or caravan equipment.
Fire extinguishers are an essential piece of safety equipment for vehicles, and you can find our full range here.
Don’t forget, you should only attempt to tackle a fire if everyone is safely out of the vehicle, and you’re confident it is safe to do so. Don’t forget, you should only attempt to tackle a fire if everyone is safely out of the vehicle, and you’re confident it is safe to do so.