Gasoline is one of the most fire-hazardous substances that car owners regularly encounter. Its vapors ignite at temperatures as low as −40°C, and combustion is accompanied by a high speed of flame propagation and the risk of explosion. Statistics from the Ministry of Emergency Situations show that more than 30% of fires at gas stations and garages are associated with improper extinguishing of gasoline using traditional means (water, foam fire extinguishers of the wrong class). This article will help you figure out which fire extinguisher is really effective against gasoline fires, how to use it correctly, and what mistakes can cost your life.
Many people mistakenly believe that any powder or foam fire extinguisher will cope with burning fuel. In practice, the choice depends on fire class, volume of fire and conditions (open space, enclosed garage, presence of electrical wiring nearby). We analyzed the technical characteristics of fire extinguishers, GOST R 51057-2001 standards and the recommendations of rescuers in order to create a checklist of criteria for the safe extinguishing of gasoline - from everyday situations to emergencies at gas stations.
Why gasoline cannot be extinguished with water or unsuitable fire extinguishers
The main mistake when extinguishing gasoline is trying to use water or class fire extinguishers A (for solid materials). Gasoline is lighter than water, so when a jet hits it, it simply floats up, continuing to burn, and the area of fire increases due to spreading film. Moreover, water can cause fuel splashing, which will lead to burns and the spread of fire to neighboring objects.
It is no less dangerous to use air-foam fire extinguishers (AFF) low quality or expired. The foam of such devices often does not form a stable film on the surface of gasoline, and its chemical composition can react with fuel additives, increasing combustion. For example, when stewing leaded gasoline (containing tetraethyl lead) cheap foam can release toxic gases.
⚠️ Attention: Never use carbon dioxide fire extinguishers (CO) in enclosed spaces (garages, boxes) without a respirator! When extinguishing gasoline CO₂ displaces oxygen, which can lead to suffocation. The minimum safe oxygen concentration is 17%, and after using OC it drops to 12–15%.
- 💧 Water: Gasoline spreads, increases the area of the fire, and can cause a vapor explosion.
- 🔥 Class A fire extinguishers: Designed for paper/wood, useless against liquids.
- ☠️ OS in the garage: Risk of poisoning
CO₂— after 30 seconds of use, the oxygen concentration drops to a dangerous level. - ⚗️ Cheap foam: May react with gasoline additives, releasing toxic gases (such as nitrogen oxides).
Fire classes and markings of fire extinguishers: what do the letters on the cylinder mean?
To choose the right gasoline fire extinguisher, you need to understand the fire classification system. According to GOST 27331-87, combustion of liquids (including gasoline, diesel, oils) belongs to the class B. However, in practice it is important to take into account related factors:
- 🔋 Class E: If a gasoline fire occurs near electrical equipment (for example, in the engine compartment), you need a fire extinguisher marked BE.
- 🏭 Class C: For gases (propane, methane) - not applicable to gasoline, but it is important not to confuse it when extinguishing at a gas station where gas cylinders may be stored.
The fire extinguisher body indicates the fire classes for which it is intended. For example, marking ABCE means that the device is suitable for solid materials, liquids, gases and electrical equipment. But for gasoline, the best option is to focus on class B - this is signaled by:
- 🔴 Red square with letter B - the main indicator of suitability for liquids.
- ⚪ White background with black letter E — allows extinguishing electrical equipment under voltage up to 1000 V.
- 🟢 Green stripe on a cylinder - often used for dry powder fire extinguishers of the class BCE.
| Fire class | Type of combustible material | Suitable fire extinguishers | Example situation |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Solids (wood, paper) | Water, powder (OP-A) | Burning wooden furniture |
| B | Liquids (gasoline, diesel, oils) | Powder (OP-B), foam (ORP-B), carbon dioxide (OU-B) | Fuel fire in the engine compartment |
| C | Gases (propane, methane) | Powder (OP-C), carbon dioxide (OU-C) | Fire at a gas filling station |
| E | Live electrical equipment | Carbon dioxide (OU-E), powder (OP-E) | Short circuit near the gasoline canister |
Top 3 fire extinguishers for gasoline: comparison of efficiency
Based on tests of the Ministry of Emergency Situations and independent examinations (including tests at test sites Research Center "Security"), we have selected three types of fire extinguishers that are most effective for extinguishing gasoline. The criteria were: the rate of supply of the fire extinguishing agent, coverage area, resistance to re-ignition and safety for the user.
1. Powder fire extinguishers (OP) class BCE
The most versatile and affordable option. Powder (based on ammonium phosphate or sodium bicarbonate) creates on the surface of gasoline non-flammable crust, blocking the access of oxygen. Benefits:
- ⚡ Speed: Extinguishes fire in 5–10 seconds (if used correctly).
- 🔌 Safety for electrical equipment: Can be used at gas stations near cash registers and pumps.
- 💰 Price: From 800 rubles per 2 kg (for example, OP-2(z) from "Rime").
Disadvantages: powder contaminates surfaces, can damage vehicle electronics and is difficult to dispose of after use. Also requires recharge after use (even if 10% of the contents are used up).
2. Air-foam fire extinguishers (AFP) class ABE with fluorine foam
Modern fluorosynthetic foams (for example, AFFF) form on the surface of gasoline resistant film, preventing vapor evaporation. Suitable for large fires (from 5 m²). Benefits:
- 🌊 Efficiency: The foam covers the burning liquid with a layer of 5–7 cm, preventing re-ignition.
- 🚗 Gentle effect: Does not damage the paintwork of the car (unlike powder).
- 🔄 Long lasting effect: Prevents re-ignition for up to 30 minutes.
Disadvantages: high price (from 3000 rubles for 6 liters), cannot be used at sub-zero temperatures (foam freezes), requires regular maintenance (every 1–2 years).
3. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers (OC) class BE
Use liquefied CO₂, which displaces oxygen and cools the combustion zone to −70°C. Optimal for small fireplaces (up to 1 m²) and electrical equipment. Benefits:
- ❄️ Cooling effect: Prevents re-ignition by sharply lowering the temperature.
- 🔌 Dielectric: Safe for extinguishing fires in the engine compartment (voltage up to 1000 V).
- 🧹 Cleanliness: Leaves no residue (unlike powder or foam).
Disadvantages: short range (1–1.5 m), risk of frostbite if used carelessly (socket temperature −60°C), ineffective in open spaces (carbon dioxide quickly dissipates).
For gasoline in the garage, the OP-4(z) powder fire extinguisher is optimal - it is cheap, universal and does not require complex maintenance. At gas stations, it is better to use air-foam fire extinguishers with fluorine-containing foam (for example, OVP-10).
How to extinguish gasoline: step-by-step instructions, taking into account the type of fire extinguisher
The algorithm of actions depends on fire places (open space or closed volume), presence of wind and type of fire extinguisher. Below is a universal instruction approved by the methodological recommendations of the Ministry of Emergency Situations (Order No. 404 of 2018).
Stay calm and assess the situation (is there a risk of explosion, are people in danger)
Call the fire department by phone 101 or 112
Choose a fire extinguisher with markings B or BE
Approach the fireplace from the windward side (the wind should be blowing at your back)
Remove the safety pin and point the bell towards the base of the flame
Press the lever and move the stream in a zigzag pattern, covering the entire surface
After extinguishing, observe the fire for 10–15 minutes (risk of re-ignition)-->
Features for different types of fire extinguishers
- 🔥 Powder (OP):
- Hold a fire extinguisher vertically, do not turn over.
- Start stewing with edges of the hearth, gradually moving towards the center.
- Distance to flame - 3–4 meters (for OP-5).
- 🌊 Air foam (AFP):
- Direct the stream to the near edge burning liquid, not the center.
- The foam should cover the surface with a layer not less than 5 cm.
- Do not use at temperatures below +5°C.
- ❄️ Carbon dioxide (CO):
- Don't touch bare hand socket - risk of frostbite.
- Simmer short pulses (2-3 seconds) to avoid scattering
CO₂. - After use ventilate the room.
⚠️ Attention: If gasoline burns in metal container (canister, barrel), never point the fire extinguisher directly at the walls! Sudden changes in temperature can lead to rupture of container and scattering of burning fuel. Extinguish only the surface of the liquid, holding the extinguisher at an angle of 30–45°.
Mistakes that turn firefighting into disaster
According to VNIIPO EMERCOM of Russia, in 68% of cases of unsuccessful extinguishing gasoline are to blame wrong actions people, not the shortcomings of fire extinguishers. Here are the most dangerous mistakes:
- 🌀 Circular movements with the bell: This fans the flame, increasing the flow of oxygen. Move the stream zigzag, from edge to center.
- 👟 Extinguishing against the wind: The extinguishing agent will not reach the fireplace, and the flame will move towards you. Always become to windward.
- 🔋 Using an op-amp in a closed garage: After 20–30 seconds, concentration
CO₂exceeds the maximum permissible limit, which will lead to loss of consciousness. - 🚫 Attempting to extinguish gasoline with water: 1 liter of water carries up to 10 liters of gasoline in area, increasing the focus by 5–7 times.
- ⏳ Stopping extinguishing at the first extinguishing: Gasoline may re-ignite after 1-2 minutes due to residual heat. Watch the hearth at least 10 minutes.
Another critical error - using an expired fire extinguisher. The powder in the cylinder cakes, and the pressure in the OS drops by 20–30% over 5 years. Check the date of last recharge (it is indicated on the label) and weigh the fire extinguisher every six months: weight loss of more than 10% is a signal for replacement.
What to do if the fire extinguisher does not work?
If, after pressing the lever, the extinguishing agent does not flow:
1. Check if the safety pin (a common cause of malfunction).
2. Turn the fire extinguisher upside down and shake it sharply - sometimes the powder cakes at the neck.
3. If the cylinder is cold (for example, it was stored in an unheated garage), take it to a warm room for 10–15 minutes.
4. If there is no result leave the fire area immediately — the risk of the cylinder exploding is high!
What kind of fire extinguisher should you have in your car and garage?
According to Traffic regulations (clause 7.7) and GOST R 41.27-2001, every car must have a fire extinguisher with a volume of at least 2 liters (for cars) or 5 liters (for trucks and buses). However, for gasoline, not only the volume is critical, but also type of extinguishing agent.
| Storage location | Recommended fire extinguisher type | Minimum volume | Model example | Service life |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger car | Powder (OP) grade BCE | 2 kg | OP-2(z) "Rime", MIG OP-2 | 5 years (with recharge every 2 years) |
| Truck/bus | Powder (OP) or air foam (AFP) | 5 kg/liter | OP-5(z) "Pozhtekhnika", OVP-5 | 5 years (recharge every 1–2 years) |
| Garage/box | Powder (OP) or carbon dioxide (CO) | 4–5 kg | OP-4(z), OU-5 | 10 years (OU), 5 years (OP) |
| Gas station | Air foam (AFP) with fluorine foam | 10 liters | OVP-10 "Pozhkhimmash" | 4 years (with annual maintenance) |
Optimal for a personal car powder fire extinguisher OP-2(z): it is compact, versatile and costs from 800 rubles. Better to keep it in the garage OP-4(z) or OU-3 (if there is electrical equipment). Mandatory at gas stations and service centers. foam fire extinguishers OVP-10 with fluorine foam - they meet the requirements SP 155.13130.2014 for objects with increased fire danger.
Keep a fire extinguisher in your car easily accessible place (for example, under the front passenger seat or in the trunk near the first aid kit), but not near heat sources (exhaust pipe, battery). Optimal storage temperature: from −20°C to +50°C.
What to do after extinguishing: disposal and restoration
Even if the fire is extinguished, residual extinguishing agent and spilled gasoline require proper disposal. Here are the key steps:
- Ventilate the room: Open the garage door or windows for 20 to 30 minutes to remove gasoline and
CO₂(if an op-amp was used). - Collect remaining powder/foam: Use non-flammable materials (sand, special sorbents). Do not pour into the sewer!
- Neutralize gasoline: Cover up spilled fuel sand or sawdust, then collect them in a metal container with a lid.
- Check the fire extinguisher: Even if it was not completely used up, recharge it in a certified center (cost - from 300 rubles).
- Dispose of waste: Hand over used powder and contaminated sand to licensed organization (for example, EcoService or MegapolisResource).
⚠️ Attention: If gasoline was burning in the engine compartment, don't start the engine for at least 1 hour! Residual fuel vapors can be ignited by spark plugs. Before starting, check the integrity of the fuel lines and electrical wiring.
To neutralize the smell of gasoline in the garage, use vinegar solution (1:1 with water) or special odorators (for example, Ozone Shock). Do not use chlorine-based bleaches - they may react with fuel residues.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about extinguishing gasoline
Is it possible to extinguish gasoline with an OA fire extinguisher (water with additives)?
No! Fire extinguishers class A (including water with additives) are not only useless against gasoline, but also aggravate the situation. Water spreads the fuel, increasing the combustion area. Exception - water mist (class F), but such fire extinguishers are not certified for household use in Russia.
Which fire extinguisher is better: imported or Russian?
The quality of a fire extinguisher is determined not by the country of origin, but by certification. Imported models (for example, Amerex or Kidde) often have more convenient ergonomics, but Russian fire extinguishers (OP-4(z) "Rime", OVP-10 "Pozhtekhnika") are not inferior in efficiency and are easier to maintain. The main thing is to check availability GOST R conformity mark and date of last recharge.
What to do if gasoline catches fire in a canister?
Algorithm of actions:
- Take the canister to open space (if it's safe to do so).
- Cover the canister thick fabric (for example, with a tarpaulin) or cover sandto block the access of oxygen.
- Use powder fire extinguisher, directing the jet towards base of flame, and not on the walls of the canister.
- If the canister is deformed - don't come closer than 5 meters (risk of explosion!).
How many fire extinguishers should a garage have?
According to SP 4.13130.2013, in a garage of up to 50 m² there is enough one fire extinguisher (OP-4 or OU-3). For large rooms (from 50 m²) or when storing more than 20 liters of gasoline, two fire extinguishers (for example, OP-4 + ORP-5). Availability is also required sandbox (20 kg) and asbestos blanket (1x1 m).
Can a fire extinguisher be used after the expiration date?
Absolutely not! After the expiration date (usually 5 years for OP and 10 years for OU), the fire extinguisher loses up to 40% pressure, and the powder or foam may cake. In addition, corrosion of the cylinder increases the risk of rupture during use. Check annually:
- The integrity of the seal and pressure gauge (the arrow should be in green zone).
- No dents or rust on the body.
- Weight of the fire extinguisher (loss of more than 10% is a sign of gas leakage).
Recharging is cheaper than buying a new one (from 300 rubles for OP-2).