No, it is not a replacement to a fire extinguisher, You should have a fire extinguisher FIRST! Fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems are two different products. We always suggest you buy a quality fire extinguisher for your car, mounted within easy reach of the operator. Not only can you put out a fire in your car with a hand held fire extinguisher, you can use it to save some one else! Buy a BlazeCut for another layer of defence that works automatically and is on guard 24×7! Unlike a fire extinguisher, BlazeCut works without a person’s effort.