A compact, portable extinguisher designed to fight liquid or electrical fires, the First Alert FE5G fire extinguisher is an inexpensive unit suited for use in trucks, campers, vans and boats. It's also U.S. Coast Guard approved.

At just more than 3 pounds, it's very easy to aim, and the SureGrip trigger provides an even greater measure of control. You just remove it from the wall-mounting bracket (which is included), break the safety seal and squeeze the trigger. It's about as close to point-and-shoot as it gets. The handle gauge lets you know how much pressure remains in the unit.

The extinguisher uses a dry chemical powder to control the fire, and is effective against small fires involving oil, gas, grease, or other flammable liquids, but not paper or wood. Still, at around $15, it's an inexpensive "insurance policy" that could pay off in a big way. The First Alert FE5G fire extinguisher comes with an impressive 5-year limited warranty.


Pros: Maneuverability, low cost
Cons: Small capacity