Car equipment This is not just a substance of comfort or convenience, but, above all, an work arising from the law. Among the elements that all vehicle on Polish roads must have is car fire extinguisher. Although many drivers treat it as an insignificant addition, its deficiency – or failure to meet certain requirements – may end with a mandate even to PLN 5000.
Obligation to have a fire extinguisher – what do the regulations say?
Polish law clearly indicates that each passenger car must be fitted with fire extinguisher. This work applies to both private vehiclesAs well as corporate. Although theoretically adequate having 1 piece, it is essential that the fire extinguisher:
- was technically efficient,
- has valid legalisation,
- was in easily accessible location.
The most recommended and utilized fire extinguisher in vehicles is ABC type, i.e. universal equipment capable of extinguishing solids, liquids and gases – typical fire sources in cars.
Mandate for deficiency of a fire extinguisher – up to PLN 5000
Drivers frequently do not realize the severity of the consequences for missing or invalidating the fire extinguisher. After the changes in regulations, the police gained broad mandate forks – from 20 zł up to 5000 zł. Although in practice it usually ends with penalties in the scope from 50 to 200 złOfficers may apply highest level of fine in the event of a serious infringement or in repeated situations.
During routine roadside checks not only the possession of papers or the method condition of the vehicle, but besides its Basic equipment. In the absence of a fire extinguisher or a deficiency of legalisation, the driver will not avoid consequences.
Legalization – what is it and why is it mandatory?
Many car owners mistakenly presume that having a fire extinguisher is enough. meantime failure to comply with the legalisation requirement it is treated by the service identical to its lack.
Fire extinguisher verification this confirmation that the device is inactive functional and capable of being utilized in case of fire. Each fire extinguisher has sticker with expiry date, which informs erstwhile the device can be utilized without review. After this deadline, the owner has 2 options:
- Go to the service stationwhere the fire extinguisher will be subjected technical review – cost is usually several twelve zlotys.
- Buy a fresh fire extinguisherwhich must besides stay Legalised – expenditure somewhat higher, but guaranteeing longer validity.
If the officer finds during the check that the fire extinguisher expiredI'll take it as no mandatory equipment, so he will apply the mandate in accordance with the rules.
Auto equipmentWhere do you store the fire extinguisher? The trunk is not always enough
The law does not specify precisely where the fire extinguisher is to be in the vehicle. However, it is crucial that it be placed in an easy accessible place – so that the driver can scope for it without having to search or manipulate.
In practice, many drivers hold a fire extinguisher in the trunk, which on the 1 hand is convenient, but on the another hand – can be challenged by the police. Especially if the trunk is closed or hard to reach, an officer may consider that This does not meet the condition of availabilityAnd that could besides consequence in a ticket.
The best practice is to place a fire extinguisher in the passenger compartment, e.g. under the seat or in the side recess, depending on the structure of the car. That way we can be certain If there's a fire, we'll respond immediately.Don't waste precious seconds looking for her.
Life example – a ticket despite having a fire extinguisher
As real situations show, the same having a fire extinguisher does not warrant the avoidance of a mandate. Mr. Adam, who was detained for regular traffic control, had a fire extinguisher in his vehicle. However, after checking the expiry date, the policeman stated that the fire extinguisher was after review. Despite the driver's protests, he received a mandate due to the fact that An invalid fire extinguisher is treated like it is missing. This situation shows that drivers must regularly check the legalisation deadline and do not postpone the review.
Conclusions – fire extinguisher is not a formality, but a real security
Although many view the work to have a fire extinguisher as a formality, it is worth remembering that this is about personal and passenger safety. The fire extinguisher is First line of defence in case of fireAnd efficient and accessible can save not only the car but besides life.
So make certain not only that you have a fire extinguisher, but that it is legalized, efficient and easy accessible. Otherwise – alternatively of feeling safe – we may be waiting high mandate and unpleasantness.
Continued here:
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