Vehicle fires are a serious and potentially deadly hazard that can occur unexpectedly while driving. According to the Fire Protection Association NZ there are on average 3,370 vehicle fires every year. While the majority of vehicle fires are caused by collisions, they can also occur due to mechanical or electrical malfunctions, fuel leaks, or other factors, so its important to understand vehicle fire safety and take precautions to prevent and respond to potential fires.
One of the most effective ways to prevent vehicle fires is to perform regular maintenance on your vehicle and avoid smoking or using flammable materials, such as gasoline, near your vehicle.
Be prepared for such an emergency by carrying a fire extinguisher in your vehicle, vehicle extinguishers use chemicals specific to certain fires that commonly occur in vehicles and can be used to put out a fire before it becomes too large and uncontrollable.
In this blog, we will discuss the different types of fire extinguishers suitable for vehicles, why they are necessary and how to use them.
When selecting a fire extinguisher for your vehicle, there are a few important factors to consider. First, it is important to choose a fire extinguisher that is specifically designed for use in vehicles. These types of fire extinguishers are typically smaller and more compact than traditional ones, making them easier to store in your vehicle.
It is also important to choose a fire extinguisher that is appropriate for the type of fire that may occur in your vehicle. There are several different types of fire extinguishers, each designed to extinguish different types of fires.
Vehicle fires can involve multiple classes of fires, or even transition from one class to another, so having an extinguisher that’s appropriate for multiple fire classes is the best way to stay prepared.
Being able to recognise the signs of a vehicle fire is an important aspect of vehicle fire safety. The following are some common signs that a vehicle may be on fire:
If you notice any of these signs while driving, it is important to take immediate action. Pull over to a safe location, turn off the engine, and evacuate the vehicle if necessary. Call for help if the situation is serious or if you are unsure of what to do.
By recognising the signs of a vehicle fire and taking appropriate action, you can help to prevent serious injury or damage.
Once you have selected the appropriate fire extinguisher for your vehicle, it is important to ensure that you know how to use it properly. It’s also important to keep your fire extinguisher in a readily accessible location in your vehicle, such as in the trunk or under the driver’s seat.
Now that you’ve familiarised yourself with the different types of fires, we’ll talk about the appropriate techniques for using the fire extinguisher in a vehicle fire.
Follow these steps:
Fire extinguishers aren’t a substitute for calling the fire department, if a fire is large and out of control don’t attempt to put it out yourself. Evacuate the area and call for help!
Vehicle fires are a serious hazard that can occur unexpectedly while driving. While regular maintenance and preventative measures can help reduce the risk of fires, it is also important to be prepared for emergencies by carrying a fire extinguisher in your vehicle.
By taking these precautions and being aware of the signs of potential vehicle fires, you can help keep yourself and others safe while on the road.
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