Forum Discussion

BillHoughton's avatar
BillHoughton
Explorer II
Feb 08, 2018

Fire extinguisher

Our 2006 Class C Itasca has the original 2-1/2 pound fire extinguisher, a Kidde non-refillable model that, I understand, has been recalled. So I'm looking at replacing it.

The simple thing would be to get another 2-1/2 pound extinguisher, but they are not rated very highly (one brand I looked at today was rated 1-A/10-B,C, which is just a few seconds of trying to put out a fire). But is that enough, or should I be looking at a five-pound model? The location is tight, and I'm going to have to do some pretty clever fitting to make a larger one work; but I'd rather do that than regret NOT doing the work if ever I need it.

I'd appreciate hearing what other folks have done.
  • One thing I was told was to stay away from the plastic head assemblies as opposed to metallic heads/valves etc .
  • As a fire guy, I have the one installed that came with the trailer but carry at least one extra as well. Out west here it’s also important to have them during fire season if camp fires are allowed. I would recommend carrying the largest that will fit and purchase it from a fire extinguisher dealer rather than a big box store. You will most likely get a better product for the similar price. Oh and don’t buy a Kidde of any size.
  • I carry two 5 pounders as well. Always one in the toad too. Better to have and not need than need and not have. BTW, I did need the OE one the first year I owned the RV. Although it was sufficient to put out the inside fire which had been working for a minute or so, I then realized an additional one would really be a bonus.
  • Good; thanks for the quick response. Guess I need to spend time on it.

    The issue is that, if I mount it flat against the breakfast nook right inside the door, I have to mount it so close to the outside wall that the hose gets squashed (and the local fire safety supply place recommends against that, because it could get damaged). There are things in the way of moving it sideways. But, if I make a tapered cleat, I might be able to swivel it, and mount it at an angle to free up the hose.

    These things never quit offering us challenges, do they?
  • We carry 2 - 5 pounders in ours. Even the wife took a course on how to properly use them.