3 Best RV Fire Extinguishers: 2024 Guide

Before setting out on the road, it’s vital to have all the necessary safety precautions and equipment installed.

One of those pieces of equipment is a portable fire extinguisher.

The process of finding one for your RV, however, doesn’t have to be complicated.

Below, we’ve researched and gathered what we believe to be the best RV fire extinguishers on the market to help save you time searching and comparing.

Whether you have a large rig or a smaller one or you want something more proactive or simply a trusty standard extinguisher, you’ll find what you’re looking for below.

3 Best RV Fire Extinguishers

There aren’t that many options for a portable RV fire extinguisher. After all, it’s just a fire extinguisher.

The important part is that they’re kept in working order and that they do their job when you need them to.

With that said, there are different classes of extinguisher, one more “powerful” than another, as well as some more unique fire suppression and extinguishing tools.

Here are our top three picks for the best RV fire extinguishers:

1. First Alert HOME1 Rechargeable Extinguisher

The First Alert HOME1 is one of the most common and dependable portable fire extinguishers on the market.

This is the first of two UL-rated A/B/C fire extinguishers, which is a more widely applicable extinguisher class than the standard B/C.

Class B/C extinguishers are designed for use in electrical fires and those involving flammable liquid.

However, Class A/B/C extinguishers can be used for virtually all fires except for Class D, which is a rare type of fire involving flammable metals (common metals aren’t flammable, so this isn’t something you’re likely to encounter).

The First Alert HOME1 is also designed with high-grade, commercial materials and can be recharged by a professional so you don’t have to replace it upon use.

Check out the First Alert HOME1.

2. First Alert REC5 Recreational Fire Extinguisher

Also by First Alert, the REC5 recreational fire extinguisher is another great option.

It uses sodium bicarbonate as its extinguishing agent and comes with mounting gear.

However, as opposed to the previous option this one is UL rated 5-B/C. That’s not to say it’s inadequate, just not equipped to handle as much as the HOME1.

Namely, some types of ordinary fires such as those involving wood, cloth, paper, and plastic.

Check out the First Alert REC5.

3. Elide Automatic Fire Fighting Ball

This last extinguisher is a unique option but one which is highly effective.

First patented by Elide in 1998,. Elide’s fire extinguisher ball uses the same fire extinguisher powder as a traditional extinguisher but functions a bit differently, and that’s really where its advantage comes from.

A fire extinguisher ball is installed near or in an area where a fire is likely to occur. When a fire starts, the heat causes the ball to burst and disperse the powder in a large cloud designed to suffocate the fire.

Fire extinguisher balls are great because they add a layer of proactive fire protection. Preferably, you have both extinguisher balls installed in key areas such as your kitchen and engine and a traditional extinguisher stashed somewhere.

Find where the Elid Firefighting Ball is sold near you by putting in your location here: https://shop.elidefire.com/find-locations

Are You Required by Law to Have a Fire Extinguisher In Your RV?

Yes, according to Code 1192 of the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) both trailers and motorized RVs require a fire extinguisher.

What type/size of fire extinguisher for each is listed below:

• Trailers: Type B/C, 5 lbs
• Motorized vehicles (Class, A, B, and C RVs): Type B/C, 10 lbs

According to that same code, a fire extinguisher must be mounted 24 inches from the primary exit of the vehicle.

However, the NFPA suggests having a fire extinguisher installed in each the kitchen, bedroom, and an outside storage compartment.

For more information on the NFPA’s installation standards, see their official page here: NFPA 10 Standards.

When Should You Replace Your RV Fire Extinguisher?

Fire extinguishers should be replaced every 10 years and inspected for safety every 6 years.

However, if you notice any of the below make sure to replace your extinguisher or get it serviced:

• Handle: Broken or loose
• Nozzle and hose: Torn, cracked, or clogged
• Locking pin: Safety seal is off or broken or the handle is missing

Most types of fire extinguishers are fairly affordable depending on your budget, so if it’s been a while and you’re unsure, it’s always best to simply replace it to be on the safe side.