What to do
if your car catches fire?

Acar on fire is a very dangerous situation as it can create panic among the occupants. Now, Car fire accidents might be due to various reasons, and they can be fatal at times as a car contains a fuel tank, filled with either petrol or diesel, which is a highly-flammable liquid. So, what should you do when your car catches fire? Below are some of the scenarios of car fire hazards and steps you should take if you are involved in any such incidents:

While you are driving the Car

If your car is on fire while driving on the road, then follow the below points to get out of danger:

1. Stop and switch off the ignition

The first thing you need to do if you notice a fire in your car while driving is to stop on the side of the road and turn off the ignition.

2. Get out of the car

The next thing you need to do is to get out of the car as quickly as possible. Try to also assist other occupants in safely getting out of the car. Make sure you unlock all the doors and windows before switching off the ignition.

3. Move away from the burning car

As soon as you get out of the car, move away from the burning vehicle. A car contains flammable liquids, which could result in an explosion. So, maintain a safe distance from the burning car. Also, if possible, alert the oncoming traffic about the danger ahead.

4. Use fire extinguisher

If you have a fire extinguisher, attempt to put out the fire before it gets out of hand. Note that, follow this point only if it is safe to do so. It’s always good to have a fire extinguisher in your car because fire hazards are unpredictable.

5. Do not open the bonnet/boot

When a car is in flames, do not open the bonnet/boot in an attempt to put out the fire. Fire in the engine bay or underneath the car is very dangerous, and if you try to open the boot/bonnet, the flames may flare up and might burn your hands..

6. Contact the fire department and traffic police (999)

If the fire is getting out of hand, you should immediately contact the fire department, and also notify the traffic police about the same. The traffic police will help in alerting the oncoming traffic about the incident. .

7. Contact the authorized car service center

Contact your car’s authorized service center and notify them about the situation. Explain the magnitude of the damage caused by the fire, and you can also ask for a towing vehicle to transport the damaged car to the nearest service center. .

8. Be aware of the oncoming traffic

Do not stand in the middle of the road. Always stand behind the burning car to avoid being hit by the oncoming traffic. In fact, wave a brightly colored cloth or use an Emergency warning triangle so that you can get help from the passer-byes!

9. Inform your car insurance provider

As soon as the fire has been put off, inform your car insurance provider about the incident. Wait until an executive from the insurance company reaches the spot to assess the damage..

When you see a car on fire!

Imagine you're a passer-by and you see a car on fire. As a good samaritan here are a few things you can do to help your fellow human!

1. Park your car away from the flaming car

The last thing you need is to have your car getting caught in a chain explosion. Park your car at a safe distance. And then rush to their aid.

2. Use an emergency warning triangle

Use the Emergency warning triangle or the double indicator to let the vehicles behind you know that there's an accident ahead.

3. Use fire extinguisher

Like in the previous section If you have a fire extinguisher, attempt to put out the fire before it gets out of hand. Note that, follow this point only if it is safe to do so

4. Contact the fire department and traffic police (999)

As a third party you should immediately contact the fire department and the traffic police about an accident. This is because the people in the burning car might leave their phones and wallets inside in a hurry. Aim to provide assistance. The traffic police will help in alerting the oncoming traffic about the incident.

Also, don't slow down just to see a car on fire, either stop and help or just drive away. Slowing down to see what's happening will only contribute to the traffic and may endanger the lives of many.