Carrying a fire extinguisher

[djw61]

I also carry an extinguisher in my car but I have often wondered whether it would be of any use for a fire in the engine compartment. How would one raise the bonnet if there was a fire under it? During the summer, the release catch is normally very hot after a drive. I cannot imagine trying to open the bonnet while flames are heating the release catch and possibly coming out of the louvers. Do those of you who carry extinguishers also carry insulated gloves (or an oven mitt) to open the bonnet or do you plan on attacking the fire from under the car (which I cannot imagine would be very effective)? The few times I have seen the fire department deal with engine fires, they have pried open the bonnet with a long steel or iron rod.

[chrisfell]

For reasons I won't go into right now, this subject has suddenly taken on a new perspective. I have a pair of oven gloves in the garage (for use with blow torches etc). From today at least one will be with the fire extinguisher in my car.

[PeterCrespin]

Nice to meet you today Chris, and yes - extinguishers are suddenly a bit more necessary to avoid disaster.

[neil4444]

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