Our Guide To The Best FIA Handheld Fire Extinguishers
When it comes to motorsport safety, a high-quality FIA-approved fire extinguisher system is essential. Whether you’re competing in circuit racing, rallying, hill climbs, or endurance events, having the right fire suppression setup can make all the difference in an emergency. FIA regulations mandate that all race cars must be equipped with an approved fire extinguisher system. In this guide, we’ll explain what handheld fire extinguishers are, how they’re used in motorsport, and why you might choose one over (or alongside) a plumbed-in mechanical or electrical system. We’ll also break down important FIA/Motorsport UK regulations and highlight some of the best FIA-approved handheld extinguishers available at GSM Performance – including top picks from OMP and Sparco – all in a casual yet professional tone to keep things easy to read.
What Is a Handheld Fire Extinguisher?
A handheld fire extinguisher is a small, portable unit that you can pick up and use yourself, unlike a plumbed-in system that’s built into the car. In motorsport, it’s usually mounted inside the cockpit with a quick-release bracket so the driver or co-driver can grab it fast in an emergency.
How They Keep You Safe
Despite their simplicity, handheld extinguishers play a crucial role in safety. They provide immediate fire-fighting capability if a blaze starts in the cockpit or engine bay when you’re on track or stage. They’re also useful after an incident – for example, if a small fire persists after your plumbed-in system has discharged, you or a marshal can grab the handheld and douse any remaining flames. The flexibility of being able to aim the extinguisher exactly where the fire is (whether under the hood, inside the cabin, or even on another vehicle in the paddock) makes handhelds a versatile safety tool.
How Do You Use a Handheld Fire Extinguisher?
- Quick Release and Aim: Motorsport handhelds are secured in the car with brackets and straps. In an emergency, you unclip the straps (many are designed for one-motion quick release) and remove the extinguisher. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire – this is where the flames originate.
- Pull the Safety Pin: Just like any fire extinguisher, pull out the pin or release latch that prevents accidental discharge. Ensure you have a firm hold on the cylinder with the nozzle directed at the fire.
- Squeeze and Sweep: Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent, and sweep the spray side to side across the base of the flames. AFFF foam extinguishers will coat the area in a foam layer, smothering the fire, while gaseous agents (like Novec) will “clean” suppress the fire without residue. Powder will blanket and chemically inhibit the fire.
- Be Mindful of Duration: Handheld units are limited in capacity (often 2 to 3 liters for foam, or a couple of kilograms for gas/powder), so use the agent wisely. A 2.0–2.4 liter AFFF extinguisher usually discharges in under 10 seconds of continuous use. It’s best to use short controlled bursts if possible, to make sure you don’t exhaust it all at once unless needed.
These steps should be practiced (at least mentally) so that in the heat of the moment, you can act fast. Make sure your handheld extinguisher is easily accessible and not tucked away out of reach. In rally cars, for instance, handhelds are often mounted by the co-driver’s feet or between the seats for quick access. On track days, you might mount one on the passenger floor or roll-cage bar where you can grab it quickly if you have to pull over and address a fire.
Why Choose a Handheld Fire Extinguisher (vs. Plumbed-In Systems)?
Despite their simplicity, handheld extinguishers play a crucial role in safety. They provide immediate fire-fighting capability if a blaze starts in the cockpit or engine bay when you’re on track or stage. They’re also useful after an incident – for example, if a small fire persists after your plumbed-in system has discharged, you or a marshal can grab the handheld and douse any remaining flames. The flexibility of being able to aim the extinguisher exactly where the fire is (whether under the hood, inside the cabin, or even on another vehicle in the paddock) makes handhelds a versatile safety tool.
Key Benefits of Handheld Extinguishers:
- Lightweight & Portable – Handheld units are fairly small and light, so they don’t add much weight to your vehicle and are easy to handle under pressure. Because you can direct them freely, they offer flexibility in aiming at the source of a fire, whether it’s under the dash or around the engine.
- Simple & Cost-Effective – Compared to a full plumbed-in system, handheld extinguishers are much simpler to install (just a bracket, no plumbing or electrical wiring) and generally far more affordable. This makes them an attractive option for beginners, track day enthusiasts, or those on a tighter budget who still want protection.
- Great for Track Days & Non-Competitive Events – In track days or casual motorsport events, a plumbed-in system might not be mandatory. Having a handheld extinguisher is an easy way to boost safety for these outings. It provides peace of mind that you can respond to a fire, even though you’re not in an official race. Many supercar and high-end track toy owners keep a small handheld on board just in case.
- Backup for Competitive Racing – Even if your race car has an onboard automatic fire system, carrying a handheld can be a smart extra precaution. The plumbed system will deploy in a big incident, but a handheld lets you tackle any flare-ups or spot fires afterward. It’s also useful if you encounter a teammate’s or competitor’s fire and need to help – you can grab your handheld and assist once you’re stationary and safe.
- Required in Some Motorsport Disciplines – In certain events, regulations do call for a handheld extinguisher. Rallying is a prime example: rally cars are typically required to have an FIA-approved plumbed-in system and at least one handheld unit on board. This is because in a rally, the crew might need to exit the car and fight a fire themselves in remote locations. Some hill climbs, sprints, and historic racing events also allow (or require) just a handheld extinguisher instead of a plumbed system. Always check your series or event regulations, but if you’re in one of these categories, a handheld is a must-have to meet the rules.
Fire Extinguisher Rules & Regulations in Motorsport
Fire extinguisher regulations in motorsport can be a bit complex, as they vary based on the type of event, level of competition, and the governing body (FIA or Motorsport UK). In general, if you’re racing competitively, you will need an onboard plumbed-in fire suppression system that meets specific standards. However, handheld extinguishers come into play in some classes and are at least recommended everywhere else for safety. Below, we summarize some key points about FIA and MSUK (Motorsport UK) regulations regarding fire extinguishers:
- All competition vehicles must have a fire suppression system that meets FIA or MSUK standards. This typically means an FIA-homologated system (either meeting the newer FIA 8865-2015 standard or the older FIA Technical List 16 from 2000) or an MSUK-approved equivalent for national events.
- Secure mounting and accessibility: Any extinguisher (plumbed or handheld) must be securely mounted in an easily accessible location. For handhelds, this means using a proper metal bracket (usually with quick-release straps and an anti-torpedo bracket to prevent it flying loose in a crash). The location is usually within reach of the seated driver and/or co-driver.
- Approved extinguishant agents: The extinguisher must use an approved extinguishing agent. FIA-homologated systems typically use AFFF foam or gaseous agents (such as Novec 1230 or FX G-TEC). Dry powder is generally not used in FIA plumbed systems, but handheld powder extinguishers are permitted in some cases (especially for club and track day use) – they just make a mess. They can damage electronics, so foam or gas is preferred.
- Mechanical vs Electrical activation: Plumbed-in systems can be mechanically activated (pull cable) or electrically activated (push button). Both are allowed as long as they meet the homologation standards. Motorsport UK often recommends electrical systems for ease of use, but mechanical ones are very common and reliable. Handhelds, of course, are manually operated by picking them up and using them, not via a remote trigger.
- Maintenance: All extinguishers must be maintained and serviced per manufacturer guidelines. FIA systems typically require a service every 2 years to maintain homologation. Even handhelds should be checked periodically – ensure pressure gauges show within the green range, and refill or service them after any use or when they expire.
The table below outlines the minimum fire extinguisher requirements for different types of motorsport events, according to FIA/MSUK regulations and our GSM Performance fire extinguisher guide. Always double-check the latest rule book (FIA Appendix J, MSUK Yearbook Blue Book) for your specific series, as regulations can update annually.
| Motorsport Event Type | Minimum Fire Extinguisher Requirements | Additional Notes |
| Circuit Racing (FIA & MSUK) | FIA 8865-2015 or FIA 2000-approved plumbed-in system | Minimum 3.0 L AFFF foam or 2.0 kg gas system |
| Rallying (FIA & MSUK) | FIA 2000 or MSUK-approved plumbed-in system | Minimum 3.0 L AFFF foam or 2.25 kg gas |
| Hill Climbs & Sprints | MSUK Blue Book-compliant system (typically plumbed-in) | AFFF foam system required, minimum 2.25 L |
| Endurance Racing | FIA 8865-2015-approved plumbed-in system | Advanced multi-nozzle, multi-zone suppression required |
| Track Days (Non-Competitive) | Not mandatory (handheld recommended) | A handheld 2.0 L AFFF extinguisher is advisable |
NOTE: The FIA 8865-2015 standard is the latest and most stringent for plumbed-in systems (Technical List 52), often required in top-level series like international endurance racing. FIA 2000 (Technical List 16) refers to the older standard which is still accepted in many lower-tier and national events. MSUK Blue Book-compliant systems include any FIA-homologated system or those the national authority has approved for club use. For handheld extinguishers, Motorsport UK now specifies a minimum 2.4 liter AFFF capacity (or 2.0 kg for gaseous/powder) if a handheld is mandated for your discipline – this was updated in 2022, so older 1.75 L bottles no longer suffice where a handheld is required. Even where not mandatory, we strongly recommend having at least a 2 liter+ handheld unit in the car for track days and practice sessions, because fire can strike anytime.
Our Top Pick: OMP 2.4 Litre AFFF Handheld Fire Extinguisher
When it comes to handheld fire extinguishers for motorsport, our top recommendation is the OMP Hand Held 2.4 L AFFF Extinguisher. This model is FIA and Motorsport UK approved for national and international rally use, which speaks to its quality and compliance. Filled with OMP’s AFFF foam extinguishant, it provides a generous 2.4 litre capacity – we always say don’t opt for a smaller bottle, because you’ll want all the fluid you can get your hands on if your prized machine catches fire! OMP originally offered this unit with a sleek black bottle, and now also with a more traditional bright red bottle design, so you have a choice of style. It’s supplied complete with a high-quality aluminium mounting bracket and two quick-release clamps for easy installation
Perfect Size for Most Vehicles: The dimensions of the OMP 2.4 L handheld are 295 mm in length and 132 mm in diameter. In practical terms, that’s under 30 cm long – a very compact size that makes it easy to fit in tight cockpits. Even if you have a smaller race car or kit car with limited space, this bottle isn’t so long that it becomes awkward to mount. You can typically install it on the floor pan in front of the passenger seat, on the side of the transmission tunnel, or even on a roll-cage bar using appropriate clamps. The relatively small diameter also means it can tuck away without impeding driver movement. Despite its compact size, 2.4 L of AFFF foam is a substantial amount of firefighting agent for a handheld unit (remember, this meets the latest 2.4 L minimum for rally/competition handhelds). It strikes an ideal balance between size and capacity.
Why We Love the OMP 2.4 L AFFF: Aside from its approvals and size, this extinguisher uses AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) which is very effective on the kinds of fires most likely in a car – fuel, oil, and combustible materials. Foam cools and smothers flames quickly, and it’s relatively easy to clean up compared to powder. The OMP bottle’s build quality and finish (black or red powder-coated steel) are top-notch, giving you confidence it will work when needed. At GSM Performance, we’ve found this OMP model to be one of our best-sellers for club racers, rally teams, and track day enthusiasts alike – it’s a proven piece of kit that satisfies scrutineers and gives you peace of mind.
The OMP Fire Extinguisher Collection at GSM Performance
OMP is a leading name in motorsport safety equipment, and we’re proud to carry a wide range of their fire extinguishers. Whether you need a handheld unit for occasional track days or a full FIA-spec fire suppression system for competition, OMP likely has a solution. Our OMP fire extinguisher collection spans everything from small portable extinguishers to plumbed-in mechanical and electrical systems:
- Handheld Options: OMP offers both foam and dry powder handheld extinguishers. In addition to the 2.4 L AFFF foam extinguisher (our top pick above), they produce a 2 kg Dry Powder Hand Held Extinguisher
- Mechanical Plumbed Systems: For racers who need an onboard system, OMP’s Black Collection mechanical fire extinguisher kits are very popular. These are pull-cable activated systems that come with everything you need: cylinder, stainless steel brackets, tubing, nozzles, and pulls.
- Electrical Plumbed Systems: OMP also caters to higher-end needs with its electrical systems. Their Platinum Collection and Cesal series electronic fire extinguishers use push-button activation and often feature lightweight aluminium bottles or even ultralight materials.
In short, OMP’s range covers every level of motorsport. From a simple handheld extinguisher for a weekend track car to a sophisticated plumbed-in kit for your race car, you can find an OMP product that fits the bill. OMP’s reputation for quality and performance is well-earned – their gear is trusted by amateur and professional racing teams worldwide.
The Sparco Fire Extinguisher Range
Another top-tier brand in our lineup is Sparco – a name virtually every racer knows. Sparco’s fire extinguisher range is all about providing reliable, FIA-approved fire safety for a variety of motorsport applications. At GSM Performance, we stock a selection of Sparco fire extinguishers, including both plumbed-in systems and handheld units:
- FIA-Approved Systems: Sparco produces plumbed fire suppression systems that are homologated for racing use. For instance, their 4.25 L AFFF mechanical system is a popular choice for touring cars and club racers, providing excellent fire knockdown with foam and meeting the necessary FIA/MSUK criteria.
- Handheld Extinguishers: While Sparco is perhaps best known for their plumbed systems and other safety gear, they do offer handheld motorsport extinguishers as well. Notably, Sparco has a 2.0 kg Novec Handheld Extinguisher (Novec 1230 is a clean gas agent) which is FIA-approved.
- Applications: Sparco extinguishers are suitable for almost any motorsport discipline. They explicitly design their systems for circuit racing, rally, and endurance events in mind. If you have a small open-cockpit car or a big GT car, Sparco has options scaled for both – for example, their single-seater electrical extinguisher is tailored for formula cars with tight spaces, whereas the 4.25 L systems cater to sedans and GTs.
Whether you choose Sparco or OMP largely comes down to personal preference and specific needs – both brands offer excellent products. Some racers stick with one brand for all their gear, others mix and match.
Mounting and Using Your Handheld Extinguisher in the Car
So you’ve got your shiny new handheld fire extinguisher – where and how should you install it? Proper mounting is important not just for compliance, but for usability and safety. Here are some tips on mounting and using handheld extinguishers in your vehicle:
Use the Proper Bracket: All motorsport-grade handheld extinguishers will come with a mounting bracket, usually a cradle with two metal band clamps. Use this bracket and mount it to a solid part of the car – commonly a floor panel, a seat mount, or a roll cage bar. Do not use plastic brackets or cheap mounts not intended for motorsport, as they could break loose under racing conditions or in a crash. The bracket should be secured with metal bolts (e.g., M6 or M8 with large washers) to a sturdy surface. Some people mount the bracket to an alloy sheet and then secure that sheet to the car for extra support. The key is, it must be securely attached so the extinguisher doesn’t become a projectile in an accident.
Orientation: Mount the extinguisher roughly horizontal or slightly angled (some are mounted vertically, but horizontal is most common on the floor). Check the manufacturer’s instructions – a few extinguishers must be mounted a certain way to work properly (for example, some siphon tube designs prefer horizontal placement). Generally, keeping it horizontal along the car’s centerline (or slightly angled up at one end) is a safe bet. This also helps with accessibility.
Anti-Torpedo Tab: You might see the term “anti-torpedo” bracket or tab. This refers to a small metal stop or lip on the bracket base that prevents the cylinder from sliding forward under heavy deceleration. If your bracket has a raised edge or a dedicated tab, ensure the extinguisher’s bottom is snug against it. If not, you can fashion a small L-bracket as a stop. This is an MSUK recommendation to keep the extinguisher from shooting out forward in a crash (hence torpedo). In fact, many racing series will check that handhelds have a secure strap with anti-torpedo features during scrutineering.
- Accessibility: Mount the extinguisher where the driver (or co-driver) can reach it quickly. Common spots include in front of the passenger seat, on the floor of the passenger side (near the door or tunnel), or between the seats. For rally cars with a co-driver, they often mount two handhelds: one on the floor in front of each seat. If you’re solo, think about being able to reach over and grab it with one arm while you’re still belted in (in case you need to attempt suppression before you fully exit). Also consider that a marshal arriving should be able to spot it and pull it out easily if you’re incapacitated – so don’t hide it under a cover or deep in the boot. Clearly label it if possible with a small sticker or the standard E decal, though that decal usually marks external pulls for plumbed systems.
- Regular Checks: Make it a habit to glance at your extinguisher’s pressure gauge before each event (and periodically). The needle should be in the green zone. Temperature changes can cause slight fluctuations, but if it’s edging toward the red (low pressure) or has leaked down over time, you’ll need to service or replace it. Also, check that the straps are tight and the mounting hasn’t loosened (the vibrations in competition can shake things loose). A quick wiggle of the bottle in its bracket during prep can assure you it’s firmly in place.
By mounting the handheld extinguisher properly and keeping it accessible, you maximize the chances it will be useful when it counts. An extinguisher thrown in the back seat or one that’s come loose and slid under your pedals is not only useless – it’s dangerous. Take a few extra minutes to install it right, and you’ll have added confidence on event day.
Final Thoughts – Stay Safe with the Right Fire Extinguisher
Fire is one of the most terrifying hazards in motorsport, but with the right preparation, you can significantly mitigate that risk. A handheld fire extinguisher, especially an FIA-approved one, is a simple and effective tool that every motorsport enthusiast should consider. It’s not just about obeying regulations – it’s about protecting your life, your co-drivers, and that machine you’ve poured so much time and money into. We’ve seen small onboard fires quickly handled by a driver with a handheld unit, saving a car from severe damage. We’ve also heard the stories of big fires where the on-board system did its job and a backup handheld made sure nothing reignited. It’s clear that when it comes to fire safety, redundancy and preparedness are key.