We have all seen a car fire while driving on the highway. They are scary, violent, and certainly dangerous. Automobiles are full of flammable fluids and parts. Additionally, engines generate a significant amount of heat. In fact, car engines are the home of many tiny explosions! When one does catch on fire, it can quickly get out of control. Understanding automobile fire safety is an important aspect of owning a car. Code 4 Fire Watch has compiled some car fire safety tips for drivers to help keep themselves and their loved ones safe.
Automobile Fire Safety Tips
Keep Your Car in Good Working Order
Ensuring that your vehicle is in proper working order is crucial to protecting it from fires. Fluid or gas leaks can occur around high heat areas. This can cause ignition and a rapidly growing fire. Take your vehicle in for regular maintenance and inspections by an automobile professional. Cracked or loose wiring can cause an electrical spark to ignite a fire. If your car has electrical problems, or fuses that continue to blow, make sure that is corrected as soon as possible. Check that the oil cap is secured to prevent flammable oil from escaping. Look for rapid changes in fuel or fluid level, as these can be signs of a leak. Also, watch your engine temperature. If the temperature in your car engine begins to increase, this can be a sign of a fire hazard. Work with a mechanic that will inspect your car thoroughly for fire hazards, as well as keeping it in good working condition.
Safely Transport Gasoline or Hazardous Materials
If you are transporting gasoline or flammable materials, be sure to handle them properly and take extra precautions. When transporting gasoline in a container, only use approved gas cans. Take care to secure them and prevent them from tipping over in the vehicle. Keep your windows at least partially open to allow proper ventilation of dangerous fumes. Do not smoke in your vehicle while transporting flammable materials. If gasoline spills on or in the car, properly clean the area and ensure that all gasoline has been removed.
Avoid Automobile Accidents
This may sound obvious, but one of the best ways to prevent car fires is to drive safely and avoid accidents. Many automobile fires are triggered by car accidents and collisions. If you are in an accident, safely gather everyone involved and move away from the vehicles in case of a fire. When you call 911, make sure to inform dispatch if you see any chance of a fire.
Properly React to a Car Fire
If you begin to smell smoke or burning material while driving, pull the vehicle over immediately. Do not forget to use turn signals while doing this to prevent an accident. Turn off the engine and have all passengers leave the vehicle. If there is a potential fire, do not go back to retrieve personal items. Stay at least 100 feet away from the vehicle and traffic. Call 911 and remain as far away from the road as possible.
Park Your Car Safely
Parking your car safely is important. Do not park near flammable materials are located. This includes grass, pine straw, mulch, or items like sticks or woods. There are areas on your vehicle that produce a lot of heat and can potentially ignite any materials that it comes in contact with. Be mindful about where you park the car as well. Do not park near a bonfire, fire pit, or BBQ. If you park your vehicle in a parking garage, evaluate the parking garage safety.
Fire Protection from Code 4 Fire Watch
Fire safety is an important aspect of not only being a homeowner but also an automobile owner. Between 2014 and 2016, FEMA reports that 171,500 highway vehicle fires occurred throughout the United States. This accounts for 13% of fire department responses. Preventing car fires keeps you and your vehicle safe from danger while also keeping you on the go!
