Category Archives: Automobile maintenance
Car Fire Extinguishers: Best Ally for Auto Fire Safety
What many people do not realise is that fire extinguishers are not only for homes, offices, and other work areas. They should also be installed in cars, since the car is vulnerable to car fire accidents and car owners can keep themselves and their vehicles safe from the perils of a fire if they are properly equipped with the right fire extinguisher.
A car fire extinguisher is the first in implementing auto fire safety. This safety device, which is a compact version of a powder extinguisher, is multi-purpose as it can put out Class A, B, and C fires. Class A are fires involving burning wood, paper, cloth. Class B fires are those that originate from flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, and oils. And Class C refers to fires that resulted from flammable gases.
Since the car interior is covered with cloth furnishing, Class A fires are possible to happen. Obviously, since car operates on fuel, it is also susceptible for Class B fires. Another advantage of using powder is that this is safe to use around electrical equipment, which is great since most cars have gadgets inside too.
Using this car fire safety equipment is as simple as using any other type of extinguisher. The first thing to remember is that when you discover a fire inside your car, pull over as quickly as possible. Never attempt to put out a fire while the car is still running. Once you have pulled over, get the fire extinguisher and pull the pin. Aim the nozzle at the base and NOT at the flames of the fire. Remember, pointing at the flames with not kill the fire effectively.
After that, squeeze the lever gently and make a sweeping motion from side to side to extinguish the flames completely. Do this repeatedly until the fire is completely out. Never attempt to play hero and try to extinguish a fire that is already large and spreading. The sensible thing to do by this time is to leave the car immediately, inform passers about the fire, and to call up the fire brigade as soon as you can.
When it comes to buying a car fire extinguisher, there are several things you need to ensure. First, look at the store you are buying from and see to it that the fire equipment products it sells are topnotch and are manufactured according to the British Standards. See if the extinguishers are marked with the BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment) certification and the BSi Kitemark. Second, consider the size of your vehicle. A 2kg powder fire extinguisher is suitable for large cars, vans, and trucks while smaller vehicles can carry the smaller version.
Buying online is a good idea if you do not have the time to do manual shopping. However, you need to find an online store that fits the description above. Moreover, you need to ensure other things as well such as security for your credit card transactions, excellent customer service, affordable price, and reasonable terms on returns and shipping.
A car fire extinguisher is your best ally against possible car fire accidents. Effective in putting out three classes of fire, this is one thing that you should never really leave home without.