Electric vehicles are becoming a familiar sight on Melbourne roads, bringing new considerations for vehicle fire safety. While modern EVs incorporate sophisticated safety systems, fires can still originate from electrical components, cabin materials, accessories or other parts of a vehicle. Having a suitable portable fire extinguisher professionally installed inside your electric car gives you access to firefighting equipment when it may be safe to control a small, manageable fire.
At Australia Fire Protection, we install suitable portable fire extinguishers inside electric vehicles, with careful consideration given to accessibility, secure mounting and the individual vehicle layout.
Why Keep a Fire Extinguisher Inside Your EV?
Fire Rescue Victoria recommends motorists purchase a 1A 5B(E) dry powder portable extinguisher and have it installed in an easily accessible location. FRV also provides specific advice for vehicle cabin and under-bonnet fires.
For an EV owner, carrying an extinguisher is therefore about being better prepared for appropriate vehicle fires. It should not create the expectation that the driver can safely tackle a fire involving the high-voltage traction battery.
The Right Extinguisher for Your Electric Car
Choosing an extinguisher for an EV requires more thought than simply buying the smallest unit available. The extinguisher needs to be suitable for the fire hazards it is intended to address while also being practical to carry in the vehicle.
A dry powder extinguisher with an appropriate rating can be useful for several common vehicle fire hazards, including fires involving energised electrical equipment. FRV specifically recommends a 1A 5B(E) dry powder portable extinguisher for vehicle fire preparedness.
The extinguisher should also be clearly labelled and kept in good condition. Professional selection helps ensure that the unit installed in your EV is appropriate for its intended purpose rather than relying on a generic product chosen without considering the application.
Secure Installation Inside the Vehicle
Where an extinguisher is fitted matters almost as much as the extinguisher itself. A loose extinguisher should not simply be left rolling around the boot, cabin or footwell. We can install the extinguisher using an appropriate mounting arrangement so it remains securely held during normal driving. The chosen position should also allow the extinguisher to be reached without unnecessary difficulty during an emergency.
Installation will depend on the make, model and available space within the vehicle. The aim is to find a practical position that provides accessibility while avoiding interference with normal vehicle operation, passenger comfort and safety features.
EV Fire Extinguishers for Business and Fleet Vehicles
Businesses transitioning from petrol and diesel vehicles to electric fleets should also review the fire safety equipment carried in their vehicles.
Portable extinguisher installation may be suitable for company EVs, service vehicles, electric vans, delivery vehicles and other commercial fleets. Having extinguishers installed consistently can help businesses maintain a more organised approach to vehicle fire preparedness.
For organisations with multiple vehicles, professional installation also makes it easier to establish an ongoing test and tag and servicing schedule for the extinguishers.
Don’t Forget Regular Fire Extinguisher Servicing
Installing an extinguisher is only the beginning. Like other firefighting equipment, portable extinguishers need to remain in serviceable condition. Over time, an extinguisher can be affected by damage, corrosion, pressure loss or other issues. Equipment carried in a vehicle is also exposed to vibration and changing environmental conditions.
Regular inspection and maintenance can identify problems before the extinguisher is needed in an emergency. Businesses operating fleets can incorporate vehicle extinguishers into their broader fire equipment maintenance program.
Be Better Prepared on the Road
Carrying suitable firefighting equipment provides an additional level of preparedness whether you drive an EV privately or manage an electric commercial fleet. The key is choosing suitable equipment, installing it securely and understanding its limitations.
Australia Fire Protection can professionally install portable fire extinguishers inside electric cars and other vehicles across Melbourne. We can help determine a suitable extinguisher and practical mounting location while making sure you understand when the equipment can and cannot be safely used.
Want a fire extinguisher professionally fitted inside your EV? Call us on 1300 475 715 to discuss installation for your electric car or commercial EV fleet.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
Can I install a fire extinguisher inside my electric car?
Yes. A portable extinguisher can be securely mounted inside a vehicle in an accessible location. FRV recommends carrying a 1A 5B(E) dry powder portable extinguisher for vehicle fire preparedness.
Where should a fire extinguisher be installed in an EV?
The location depends on the vehicle’s design and available mounting space. It should be securely mounted and readily accessible without interfering with passengers, controls or safety equipment.
Can a portable extinguisher put out an EV battery fire?
You should not rely on a conventional portable extinguisher to extinguish a lithium-ion traction battery fire. If the EV battery catches fire, FRV advises calling 000 immediately and waiting in a safe location for firefighters.
Do electric vehicles legally require a fire extinguisher in Victoria?
FRV recommends carrying a suitable extinguisher for vehicle fire safety, but this recommendation should not be presented as a general legal requirement for every private EV in Victoria.
Can you install extinguishers in multiple company EVs?
Yes. Australia Fire Protection can provide extinguisher installation for individual electric cars as well as business and commercial EV fleets.