I know what you’re thinking; “What the heck does caravan vlogger know about caravan fire extinguishers?!” You have a good point…
I’ll just start this article by saying I’m not a trained firefighter and I can’t offer any expert fire advice. However, as a caravanner I of course, have in the back of my mind that I’m holidaying in a fireglass, wood and plastic box, which could, no doubt, do very well as a feature at any bonfire party, should it burst into flames.
If your caravan did catch fire and you we unfortunate enough to be in it, what would you do? Well, if it was a large fire you’d dial 999 and run for the hills, but what it it was a small fire. I guess all fires start small! But what would you do? Run a tea towel under a tap and use that to dampen the fire? Blow on it? Pee on it?
OK, probably none of those options is sensible. What you should be doing is reaching for a What fire extinguisher is suitable for caravan? or maybe a fire blanket. What’s that? Don’t you have either? Oh dear, read on my friend…
We recently changed our caravan and it was a time for throwing away all the things we didn’t need anymore. If you’ve ever changed caravans you’ll understand this process. We sold our caravan first, before buying the new one, so had to take everything out and store it in the house.
Whilst going through this process, I came across our caravan fire extinguisher. I know we’d had it for ages, although I couldn’t remember how long. Thinking, “better safe than sorry,” I decided to replace it. I know, last of the big spenders. But which one should I buy, I could of course just buy the same one as I had before..
Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Advice
So I started to research. As I said earlier I’m not an expert. There seem to be a fire extinguisher for different types for fire? Anyway there is a standard:
BS (EN)3 and tested and approved by the British Standards Institute (BSI) or the Loss Prevention Council Certificate Board (LPCB) or approved by the British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE).
Well, that’s nice and easy, thanks for nothing! I guess I need to look for caravan fire extinguishers that comply with those standards.
BS (EN)3 recommends that extinguishers should be coloured entirely signal RED although a different colour-coded area (indicator) on the body may be used so that you can, at a glance, determine the contents, as follows:
Signal red = water
Pale cream = foam
French blue = powder
Carbon dioxide = black
Fire risks are classified according to the alphabet:
| Class A | Involve most organic materials. Such as carbon, wood, textiles and paper |
| Class B | Petrol, diesel, solvents, paints and other flammable liquids |
| Class C | Butane and propane, flammable gases |
| Class D | Flammable metals |
| Class F | Cooking oils and fats |
Looking at the class’s above, a fire extinguisher will be classed as suitable to extinguish certain fires, not something I ever knew.
( Most of the info above comes from Caravan and Motorhome Club website: ) https://www.caravanclub.co.uk/advice-and-training/advice-for-beginners/fires/
CAMC’s website also says :
Although dry powder fire extinguishers are very effective in extinguishing all fires, they are not recommended for use in confined spaces such as caravans. We recommend that AFFF is the most effective for use on a caravan site.
What is and AFFF Fire Extinguisher?
Here’s one, rather than dry powder it’s foam. If you think about it logically, using a dry powder extinguisher in a caravan would be a) messy and b) you’d probably choke to death before the fire killed you.
- CE approved & Manufactured to BS EN3
- Complete with bracket
- Manufactured in the UK
- Passed the 35kv conductivity discharge test
- 5 year guarantee
So the above is the type offire extinguisher CAMC recommend you buy and I wholeheartedly agree, I know jack shit about caravan fire extinguishers!
On the fire extinguisher page detailed above is says:
“This Fire Extinguisher offers protection against Class A and B type fires”
Which as you’ll no doubt remember A isInvolve most organic materials. Such as carbon, wood, textiles and paper and B isPetrol, diesel, solvents, paints and other flammable liquids. That’s good, I hear you say. But is it. What about C. C is protection againstButane and propane, flammable gases
As a caravanner C sounds quite important right? However, I wouldn’t suggest you hang around spraying your already on fire gas bottle!
Types of Fire Extinguisher
Foam Fire Extinguishers
Most commonly used for class B fires (Petrol, diesel, solvents, paints and other flammable liquids), but as they are water based they can also be used for Class A fires (Involve most organic materials. Such as carbon, wood, textiles and paper). They should not be used for fires caused by flammable metals, kitchen fires and electrical fires.
Foam extinguishers create a cooling effect on the fuel that caused the fire. The foam creates a barrier between the fuel and the fire.
Water Fire Extinguishers
Mostly used in class A fires. In most cases you should have a water or a foam extinguisher. As with foam extinguishers it shouldn’t be used in kitchen fires caused by flammable gas or electric fires.
Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers
These are also known as ABC extinguishers. Meaning they are suitable for class A, B and C fires. These should not be used in enclosed spaces (such as caravans) as it can easily be inhaled. It also makes a hell of a mess.
Wet Chemical Extinguishers
These are designed for Class F fires (Cooking oils and fats) They can also be used on Class A fires.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguishers
These are mainly used on electrical fires. They can also be effective on Class B fires.
One Fire Extinguisher For Every Fire?
Naive me was thinking, surely there’s a fire extinguisher that can be used on all types of fire and of course there is.
- Firexo ALL FIRES 500ml 7 in 1 small fire extinguisher, for ALL fire class through ABC, D, E and F (including Lithium-ion Battery Fires), all the fire safety equipment you need in one small compact extinguisher
- One fire extinguisher for eliminating all 7 different fire types, including lithium battery fires. The safest product to have in the home, car, motorhome, caravan, office and whilst on a boat. Great for indoors and outdoor use in the events of an emergency. Great fit for fire safety as this compact fire extinguisher puts the fire out FAST.
- One for ALL small fire emergency situations. Keep everyone safe by having this small fire extinguisher in the home incase of a small fire outburst, no matter the fire type, this small extinguisher has you covered for ALL 7 types of fires (A-F as shown in diagram).
- This system is more eco-friendly than a powder extinguisher, with a 1 year warranty and supplied with a durable bracket for easy storage whilst in car, motorhome, boat or caravan.
- In the event of a fire hold aerosol upright, pull out safety pin, aim at base of fire, squeeze handle and sweep side to side. Discharge entire contents onto the fire from at least a 1m distance. Replace after use. Tested on electrical to 35 kV Fire Rating: 3A/13B /C/D/Electrical/5F/Lithium-ion
This is made by Firexo and can be used on 7 types of fire, the manufacturer claims “all types of fire”. This is where a bit of digging helps, or maybe confuses the issue. Firexo are CE marked, which means Europe are happy that they have passed whatever tests they need to. But they don’t have the British kite mark and the reasons are interesting. Firexo say :
Firexo is a global brand whereas the Kite Mark is more recognised in the UK. Firexo extinguishers are CE marked and the CE and Kite Marks are generally harmonised standards allowing us to feel safe in the knowledge that our product would gain the Kitemark when, and if we choose to apply for it in the future.
I don’t think the British kitemark people like Firexo. Maybe because Firexo won’t play ball. Which is probably why this extinguisher is silver, not red.
I personally think this is a case of Britain thinking their tests are better than the rest of Europe and if you agree, then maybe Firexo isn’t for you.
Anyway, that’s just some information for you to make your own mind up. I’m happy with a fire extinguisher that can be used on all fires.
Other Fire Fighting Accessories
I also bought a fire blanket. Less controversy here.
- KEEP YOURSELF SAFE: Extinguishes fire by suffocating it; extinguishes both liquid fires ,grease fires and so on
- MESS-FREE: Unlike the fire extinguishers, the fire blanket does not leave a mess after a fire
- VERSATILE: Ideal for the kitchen, fireplace, grill, car, camping and so on
- USEFUL IN SURVIVAL SITUATIONS: Can also be used to wrap around your body and act as a heat shield
- STANDARD: Meets EN-1869：1997 standard for cooking fire suppression
Lastly, I bought another Fireox product. It’s a kitchen pan fire extinguisher sachet. Basically if you have a pan that catches fire you simply lay this in the pan and it puts out the fire.
- Pan & Kitchen Fire Extinguisher: Can extinguish pan fires, home and kitchen fires in seconds; Just simply place the Sachet Fire Extinguisher in the pan with no need to open.
- Fire Blanket and extinguisher replacement: Safer alternative to using a fire blanket and extinguisher, easy to use and deploy; Replacement for fire blanket for kitchen and pan fires.
- UK made, Tested & Certified: Made in UK. ISO17025 Accredited and Laboratory Tested; Unique formula; Using Firexo Eco-Boost trusted technology; Suitable for oil fires up to 3 Litres.
- Recyclable: Made from recycled materials and can be recycled after use. Protect your home and family against the risk of fire. Do not open or cut sachet before use, place into pan at arms length.
- Small and compact: Small size and handy formula. Easy to clean up and light in weight. Easy to store in kitchen drawers or first aid box. Caravan accessories and caravan equipment must have.
I’ve just noticed this one that does ALL FIRE Types ABC, D, E and F (including Lithium-ion Battery Fires)
- Firexo ALL FIRES 2 Litre, 7 in 1 fire extinguisher, for ALL fire class through A, B, C, D, Electrical, F & Lithium-ion Battery Fires, all the fire safety equipment you need in one small compact extinguisher
- One fire extinguisher for eliminating all fire types, including lithium battery fires. The safest product to have in the home, car, motorhome, caravan, office and whilst on a boat. Great for indoors and outdoor use in the events of an emergency.
- NO Confusion in ANY fire emergency situation. Keep everyone safe by having this universal extinguisher in the home, no matter the fire type, this Firexo extinguisher has you covered for ALL 7 types of fires.
- More environmentally friendly. Made with natural ingredients and, unlike powder fire extinguishers, is safe, non-toxic and biodegradable
Best Selling Fire Extinguishers
- READY FOR WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST: Firechief’s UK-approved fire equipment is there to help you in that crucial moment when you need a reliable, easy to use and instantly effective solution to a fire. Use this 1kg dry powder fire extinguisher on ABC fires in kitchens, living rooms, offices, DIY spaces and the inside of vehicles. Included is a ready-to-install bracket so this extinguisher can swiftly put out an engine fire or be installed at home onto a wall.
- FOR CLASS A, B & C FIRES: Class A fires commonly involve paper, cardboard, textiles, fabric and wood. Class B fires involve solvents, lacquers, petroleum and grease. This extinguisher can be used on Class C fires involving flammable gases if the gas source can be isolated (e.g. hob or cooker). Never try tackling a Class C fire if you cannot isolate the source. Do not use on cooking oil and fat fires (F class). Suitable for use on electrical fires (may cause damage to delicate electronics).
- PEACE OF MIND – GUARANTEED FOR 5 YEARS: No maintenance needed, simply annually check the pressure gauge is green. This extinguisher is guaranteed for 5 years from purchase if not used. Corrosion and rust-free, this ABC powder extinguisher carries a 5A 34B C rating, is CE marked and has Kitemark approval to British Standards (BS EN3), proof of a quality, portable fire extinguisher. These certifications ensure that this fire extinguisher can be relied upon when the heat is on.
- HOW TO USE – PULL, AIM, SQUEEZE & SWEEP: This lightweight extinguisher is quick to deploy for instant use. To release the safety pin, hold the extinguisher steady – try to not grip the handles together. Wrap your finger around the safety pin and pull firmly to release. Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire and squeeze the handles together, directing the jet of powder towards the base of the fire. Sweep from left to right until the extinguisher has been fully used.
- HELPING YOU PUT OUT FIRE RISKS SINCE 1963: We want to make the world a safer place with our effective fire safety equipment. Your peace of mind means a lot to our family business and our wonderful team at Firechief, as you buy our products intending to keep people safe. If you need more information, please reach out to us for help. We can ensure you have the correct equipment, that keeps you safe in the heat of the moment.
- Firexo ALL FIRES 2 Litre, 7 in 1 fire extinguisher, for ALL fire class through A, B, C, D, Electrical, F & Lithium-ion Battery Fires, all the fire safety equipment you need in one small compact extinguisher
- One fire extinguisher for eliminating all fire types, including lithium battery fires. The safest product to have in the home, car, motorhome, caravan, office and whilst on a boat. Great for indoors and outdoor use in the events of an emergency.
- NO Confusion in ANY fire emergency situation. Keep everyone safe by having this universal extinguisher in the home, no matter the fire type, this Firexo extinguisher has you covered for ALL 7 types of fires.
- More environmentally friendly. Made with natural ingredients and, unlike powder fire extinguishers, is safe, non-toxic and biodegradable
- 1 KG Compact powder fire extinguisher with Fire Blanket for small fires.
- BSI KITEMARKED FIRE EXTINGUISHER WITH FIRE BLANKET
- FIRE BLANKET MARKED CE
- 8A 21 B RATED WITH PRESSURE GAUGE
- Ideal for Home, Mobile Van, Cars, Caravans, Taxi, kitchens, restaurants
- 1x FireShield 1KG Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher
- 1x 1m x 1m Soft Case Fire Blanket
- 5 YEARS WARRANTY INCLUDED
- For use on Class A & B Fires
- Comes with a wall bracket
- Kitemarked to BS EN3 & CE Certified
- 1 x FireShield 6Ltr AFFF Foam Fire Extinguisher
- 1 x FireShield 6Ltr Water Fire Extinguisher
- 1 x FireShield 2kg CO2 Fire Extinguisher
- For multiple types of fires: Including electrical, cooking oil, textiles, petrol/diesel, paper/card, motor oil, and bio-ethanol
- Extinguishes dangerous Lithium-Ion battery fires: The battery technology found in phones, laptops, e-scooters and more
- A liquid fire extinguisher that’s safe to use on electrical fires: The All-in-1 is specially formulated to work safely on electrical fires up to 1000V
- Fully tested and approved: We work with recognised standards like the British Standards Institute (BSI) to ensure our products are fully approved for use
- Non-toxic, non-hazardous, eco-friendly: One of the most eco-friendly extinguishing solutions available. No toxic residue left behind, and less waste to clean up
- 1 x 2KG Co2 Refurbished Fire Extinguisher
- 1 x 6ltr AFFF Foam Fire Extinguisher
- 1 x Double Red Fire Extinguisher Stand
- 1kg powder fire extinguisher
- Fire classification ABC: suitable to use on combustible materials, flammable liquids and gas fires
- Small and discrete size is ideal for your car, boat and caravan
- Wall bracket included to easily position in key locations
- User instructions in English, Spanish and Italian
- Firexo ALL FIRES 2 Litre, 7 in 1 fire extinguisher, for ALL fire class through A, B, C, D, Electrical, F & Lithium-ion Battery Fires, all the fire safety equipment you need in one extinguisher.
- One fire extinguisher for eliminating all fire types, including lithium battery fires. The safest product to have in the home, car, motorhome, caravan, office and whilst on a boat. Great for indoors and outdoor use in the events of an emergency.
- NO Confusion in ANY fire emergency situation. Keep everyone safe by having this universal extinguisher in the home, no matter the fire type, this Firexo extinguisher has you covered for ALL 7 types of fires.
- More environmentally friendly. Made with natural ingredients and, unlike powder fire extinguishers, is safe, non-toxic and biodegradable
- Tested Safe & Highly Effective – Modern, award winning protection for a modern world.
Caravan Fire Extinguisher FAQs
What fire extinguisher is suitable for caravan?
When it comes to choosing a fire extinguisher for your caravan, it’s important to consider the size of the caravan and the types of fires that are most likely to occur.
For most caravans, a dry powder fire extinguisher with an ABC rating (suitable for fires involving solid materials, liquids, and gases) is a good choice. This type of extinguisher is effective against most common types of fires, including those that may occur in a caravan, such as those caused by electrical equipment, cooking appliances, or flammable liquids.
It’s important to note that a dry powder fire extinguisher can leave a residue that can damage electronics and other sensitive equipment. Therefore, it may be a good idea to have a separate carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguisher for use on electrical fires.
When choosing a fire extinguisher for your caravan, be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and ensure that the extinguisher is approved for use in a caravan or other mobile accommodation. Additionally, make sure that the extinguisher is easily accessible and that everyone in the caravan knows how to use it in case of an emergency.
Where do you put a fire extinguisher in a caravan?
The placement of a fire extinguisher in a caravan is very important, as it needs to be easily accessible in case of an emergency. Here are some general guidelines for where to put a fire extinguisher in a caravan in the UK:
- Mount the fire extinguisher on a secure bracket or holder, so it doesn’t move around while the caravan is in transit.
- The best place to mount the fire extinguisher is near the caravan entrance or exit, where it can be easily reached in case of a fire.
- Make sure that the fire extinguisher is located away from any potential heat sources, such as the stove, oven, or heater.
- Do not mount the fire extinguisher in a location that is difficult to access, such as behind a cupboard or under a bed.
- Finally, ensure that the fire extinguisher is clearly labeled and everyone in the caravan knows where it is located and how to use it in case of an emergency.
It’s important to note that the specific placement of a fire extinguisher may vary depending on the layout and size of your caravan, so it’s always best to refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific recommendations.
Is it compulsory to have a fire extinguisher in a caravan?
In the UK, there is no legal requirement for caravans to have a fire extinguisher, but it is strongly recommended as a safety precaution. The Caravan and Motorhome Club, for example, recommends that all caravans should be equipped with a fire extinguisher that is appropriate for the size of the caravan, the types of potential fire risks, and which meets current British Standards.
While a fire extinguisher is not mandatory, it is important to remember that caravans can be particularly vulnerable to fire, due to their compact size and the presence of flammable materials such as gas canisters, cooking equipment, and soft furnishings. A fire extinguisher can help to contain a small fire before it gets out of control, potentially saving lives and property.
Therefore, it is strongly advised to have a fire extinguisher in your caravan and to ensure that it is easily accessible and in good working order.
What is the difference between AB and C fire extinguishers?
AB and C are ratings that refer to the type of fire that a fire extinguisher is designed to put out. Here’s what each rating means:
- Class A fires: involve ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, or cloth.
- Class B fires: involve flammable liquids or gases, such as petrol, oil, or propane.
- Class C fires: involve electrical equipment, such as motors, transformers, and appliances.
An AB fire extinguisher is designed to put out Class A and Class B fires, meaning it’s effective on fires involving ordinary combustibles and flammable liquids or gases. It uses a dry chemical agent, usually mono ammonium phosphate, to smother the fire.
A C fire extinguisher is designed to put out Class C fires, which involve electrical equipment. It uses a non-conductive agent, usually CO2 or dry chemical, to suppress the fire without conducting electricity.
Some fire extinguishers are designed to put out multiple types of fires and are labelled as ABC extinguishers. These are versatile and can be used on fires involving ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids or gases, and electrical equipment.
It’s important to choose the right type of fire extinguisher for the types of fires that are most likely to occur in your home or workplace, as using the wrong type of extinguisher can be ineffective or even dangerous.
Fire Extinguisher Vlog
*Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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