Car fires can be dangerous.
To your knowledge, car fire does not always come from the engine. You can either see the flames or smoke coming from under the car, inside the car or near the wheels.
Factors contributing to car fires
The following are usually cited as the most common cause of car fires.
1. Fuel system leakage
2. Engine overheating
3. Car accessories
4. Impact of a car accident
5. Flammable items
What to do in case of car fires?
We know it is impossible to stay calm seeing your car catches fire. However, panicking would not be helping either. In such a situation, it is important to act rationale and quickly.
Here’s what you must do if your car catches fire:
Stop the car
Car fires can occur when you drive or when stationary.
If you catch smoke or flames coming out of your car when driving, do not attempt to continue your journey. Immediately look for a safe area to stop.
Give a signal to other cars and drive your car slowly on the road shoulder. Turn off the car engine to reduce the risk of fire spread.
Evacuate the car
Vacate the car immediately and keep a safe distance from the car. Do not leave anyone in the car, especially the elderly and children. Make sure to pop the car hood too.
Stay at least 30 meters away
Make sure that you stand away from the car, at least 100 meters away. Keeping a safe distance will prevent you from getting injured in case of an explosion.
Other than that, it is dangerous to inhale smoke from a fire. Please note that smoke inhalation poses can cause brain damage and lung damage.
Don’t attempt to douse the fire yourself
Please do not try to do anything on your own. Never try to put off the fire on your own.
Any increase in air or water supply can result in the spread of fire. Please wait, and keep a safe distance from the car while waiting for the rescue.
*In case of no flame or mere smoke coming out of the car’s hood, you may use a fire extinguisher to put off the fire.
Call the traffic police and fire department
In case of car fires, please dial traffic police as soon as possible. Immediately contact the fire department as a burning car in the middle of the road can be dangerous. Inform your whereabouts so they can act quickly.
Usually, the police will alert the fire department following a fire report. However, it is better if you inform the fire service yourself to make sure there is no delay.
Don’t attempt to go near the car
In any case, don’t attempt to go near the fire just because you want to retrieve your items.
No matter how small the flames are, it is dangerous and not worth your life risk. You can retrieve it after everything is pronounced safe and the fire has been put out.
Does insurance cover damage caused by car fires?
Yes, some insurance covers the fire damages, depending on the type of policy. You can only make a car insurance claim due to accidental fire if you have a comprehensive policy or third party, fire , and theft policy.
Steps to claim fire damage
1. Inform your insurer about the fire immediately
3. Lodge a police report
2. Take photos of the scene and car damage
3. Your car will be towed to the workshop
4. Wait for the report from the police, fire department and insurance company
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