The Motorist Guide on what to do if your car catches fire – stay safe, act fast

Imagine cruising down the highway when suddenly, you smell smoke. You glance down, and there it is—a flicker of flames under the hood. Your heart races, but now isn’t the time to panic. You need a plan of action, and you need it fast.

Step 1: Get Off the Road ASAP

As soon as you notice signs of a fire, pull over to a safe spot. Avoid stopping in traffic or on the shoulder near vegetation. Turn off the engine, keeping the fire from spreading, and get everyone out of the car immediately. Safety first—don’t risk being in the vehicle a second longer than necessary.

Step 2: Don’t Open the Hood

Your first instinct might be to check under the hood, but this is a big no-no. Opening it feeds the fire with more oxygen, which can cause it to flare up even more. Instead, take a step back, putting a solid distance between you and the car.

Step 3: Call for Help

Dial emergency services right away. Tell them your location and the severity of the fire. While waiting, notify other drivers if possible. Hazard lights or waving your arms will make others aware of the situation so they can steer clear.

Step 4: Don’t Be a Hero—Wait for Help

Leave the fire-fighting to the professionals. Car fires can quickly become uncontrollable, so don’t attempt to put it out yourself unless it’s small and manageable, and you have an extinguisher within reach.

Step 5: Stay at a Safe Distance

Even after the fire is out, steer clear. The car can still pose dangers from residual heat or even re-ignition. Once the scene is secure, contact your insurance company for next steps.

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