Fire safety is a critical concern for RV owners, and choosing the right fire extinguisher can make all the difference in an emergency. We recently asked our readers in the newsletter, “What type of fire extinguisher do you carry in your RV?” to see which option is the most popular among fellow travelers. The responses were eye-opening, revealing a clear favorite—but also some surprising alternatives. If you haven’t voted yet, make sure to check out our next newsletter poll so you can contribute to future results! After all, your input helps shape the conversation and keeps our community informed.
The Poll Results
Here’s how RVers responded to our fire extinguisher poll:
| Fire Extinguisher Type | Percentage of Votes |
|---|---|
| ABC type | 82% |
| CO2 type | 6% |
| Water type | 6% |
| Foam type | 6% |
Why ABC Fire Extinguishers Dominate the RV World
It’s no shock that ABC-type extinguishers are the overwhelming favorite among RVers. These versatile units can handle fires caused by wood, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment—three major risks in an RV. Whether it’s a cooking mishap, an electrical short, or an overheated engine component, an ABC extinguisher has you covered. Plus, they’re widely available at most hardware stores and come in compact sizes perfect for tight RV spaces.
The Underdogs: CO2, Water, and Foam Extinguishers
While ABC extinguishers stole the show, a small but dedicated group of RVers opt for CO2, water, or foam extinguishers. CO2 models are great for electrical fires but less effective on grease or fabric fires, which might explain their low adoption rate. Water extinguishers, while eco-friendly, are useless on electrical or fuel-based fires—a big limitation for RV use. Foam extinguishers work well on liquid fires but aren’t as versatile as ABC models. It seems most travelers prefer a one-stop safety solution over specialized options.
Our Take: Why ABC Extinguishers Won by a Landslide
The results make perfect sense when you consider the unique challenges of RV living. ABC extinguishers are the Swiss Army knives of fire safety—effective against almost every type of fire an RVer might face. Since space is limited, carrying multiple extinguishers isn’t practical, so a single, reliable option is the smart choice. Additionally, many RV manufacturers and safety experts recommend ABC extinguishers, reinforcing their popularity. While niche options have their place, the convenience and reliability of ABC models clearly win out.
So, what’s in your RV? If you’re part of the 82%, you’re in good company. But if you’re using something different, we’d love to hear why in the comments! Stay safe, and happy travels!
