Ask the Editors: Why Doesn’t my UTV Have a Fire Extinguisher?
Good call. We agree with the value of carrying onboard fire suppression equipment; if not only for the scenario you describe but also because the nature of off-roading often places us in a position to nip wildfires or camp fires that have gotten out of control in the bud.
Of course the reason fire extinguishers aren’t OEM accessories likely has all to do with economics and the fact that such equipment isn’t mandated by the government (yet). Several racing organizations and clubs do, however, make make carrying an extinguisher mandatory.
However, don’t let the fact that the OEMs don’t include one from the factory stop you from trusting your instinct. Companies like Quad Boss have designed and sell universal extinguisher holders comprised of nylon straps with hook-and-loop closures that adjust strap length to fit just about any cage tube and extinguisher bottle sizes.
We personally know riders who have gotten creative with simple oversize zip-ties to create a simple but effective bottle mount. If worse comes to worse, most big box chains and automotive parts stores carry affordable automotive emergency kits with a small extinguisher that fit neatly under seat or in storage trunks. When it comes to accessories like fire extinguishers, we are supports of the theory that it is better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
