How To Properly Use A Car Fire Extinguisher

Car fire extinguisher is probably one of the tools found in a car mostly taken for granted. Some people only use it because of the requirement by law and insurance. The survey shows that two out of every five car owners actually know how to properly use a fire extinguisher. This may be considered understandable given that fire accidents are not so common, but this doesn’t rule out a high possibility of fire incident occurring. The car is made of highly inflammable materials and can ignite at a moment’s notice, so knowing how to use an extinguisher is very important. We will look at proper ways to store and use this tool in the following paragraphs.

For a fire to occur, it requires three components, namely, Oxygen, Heat and Fuel. The fuel can be any type of flammable material that when exposed to a very high temperature catches fire. Oxygen keeps the fire going. All three elements are required to sustain a fire. A fire extinguisher works by removing at least one of these elements, putting the fire out.

Proper Storage Of Car Fire Extinguisher

Classes Of Fire Extinguishers

Class A Fire Extinguishers are used for ordinary combustibles, such as paper, wood, cloth, and some types of plastic. These extinguishers typically use water or certain types of dry chemicals to either absorb heat or coat the fire.

Class B Fire Extinguisher Fires that originate from flammable liquids and gas can be extinguished by a class B fire extinguisher. This is the type of extinguisher you’ll want to use on a fire caused by oil or fuel.

Class C Fire Extinguisher are effective against electrical fires from live wires, panels, and circuit breakers. The extinguisher works by releasing materials that stop the conduction of electricity.

Class D Fire Extinguisher are used on combustible metals. These include magnesium, sodium, aluminum, and titanium.

Class K Fire Extinguisher commonly used in restaurant kitchens, class K fire extinguishers can effectively put out fires caused by cooking fats, greases, and oils. They use a process called saponification by releasing an alkaline agent to create a foam that traps vapors and puts the fire out.

It is extremely important to check your fire extinguisher periodically because they have a limited lifespan. Where ever you may choose to put your fire extinguisher, make sure it is a location for quick and easy access during an emergency. The short video below illustrates further.

About Nonso Okafor

I've worked as a technical support representative in major auto centers in Nigeria for more than twenty years. I have dealt with a variety of problems in my capacity as a customer service representative and auto diagnostics expert. I'm committed to assisting people in properly maintaining their automobiles and in appreciating this magnificent innovation known as an automobile.

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