1. It is recommended to use a portable dry powder fire extinguisher.

　　Firefighting equipment manufacturers have identified four main types of vehicle-mounted fire extinguishers currently available on the market: dry powder extinguishers, ultra-fine dry powder extinguishers, carbon dioxide extinguishers, and water-based extinguishers. Dry powder extinguishers operate on the principle of chemical inhibition, interrupting the chain reaction of combustion. They offer high extinguishing efficiency, comprehensive functionality, rapid fire suppression, electrical insulation properties, good low-temperature performance, long shelf life, low cost, and simple operation. Ultra-fine dry powder extinguishers are particularly suited for use in buses; however, carbon dioxide extinguishers pose certain risks under high-temperature conditions. Water-based extinguishers are not suitable for long-term storage and are relatively expensive.

　　2. The fire extinguisher pressure gauge is only normal when it’s in the green zone.

　　The pressure gauge on a fire extinguisher is divided into three zones: green, yellow, and red. If the pointer is in the green zone, it means the fire extinguisher is fully functional and ready for use. If the pointer is in the yellow zone, it indicates that the fire extinguisher is nearing its expiration date. If the pointer points to the red zone, it means the internal pressure has leaked, rendering the extinguisher unusable; you should promptly take it to a maintenance department for inspection or replacement. In addition, fire extinguishers have an expiration date, and they must be replaced promptly once that date has passed. Any extinguisher that has been manufactured for more than five years—even if it has never been opened or used—must be sent to a professional maintenance facility for inspection. Thereafter, it must be tested annually to ensure safety and reliability.

　　3. Place the fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location.

　　Don't keep the fire extinguisher in the trunk, because if a fire does break out, it will be difficult to use the extinguisher stored in the trunk effectively and promptly. It's best to place the fire extinguisher within easy reach of the driver—such as under the driver’s seat, beneath the passenger seat, or behind the driver’s seat—and be sure to secure it firmly to prevent it from rolling around.

　　Attention: If the fire is small, put it out quickly; if it’s large, get out of there fast! Vehicle fires often start burning from a single spot first. Once you spot the ignition point, remember this critical tip from fire safety experts: Immediately use the vehicle’s fire extinguisher and aim it directly at the base of the flames to put out the fire as swiftly as possible. But if the fire grows too big or you still can’t extinguish the open flames after about two minutes, don’t hesitate—get out of the vehicle right away. Don’t rely on the small onboard fire extinguisher to turn the situation around. At that point, you should evacuate quickly and call the fire department immediately.