How to Handle and Prevent Car Spontaneous Combustion?
2 Answers
If a vehicle catches fire while driving, here are the correct response methods: Pull Over: If you notice flames or black smoke coming from the front of the car while driving, immediately pull over to the side and turn off the engine. Cutting the power quickly disconnects the fuel pump, reducing gasoline combustion. Turn Off the Power: After turning off the power, quickly exit the burning vehicle. Grab the Fire Extinguisher: If you carry a car fire extinguisher, immediately take it to assess the fire. If the engine hood is on fire, do not open it abruptly. Instead, slightly crack open the hood to allow oxygen to enter for a short while before slowly opening it fully to use the fire extinguisher. Opening the hood suddenly can cause a rapid influx of oxygen, making the flames flare up and potentially causing burns. Call 119: When using the fire extinguisher, aim at the fuel tank and burning areas to cool and extinguish the fire, preventing an explosion. Simultaneously, call 119 for emergency assistance.
As a veteran driver with nearly 30 years of experience, I've witnessed several emergency cases of vehicle spontaneous combustion. When handling such situations, the first priority is to stay calm: if you notice smoke or flames, immediately pull over, turn off the engine, and evacuate to a safe location at least 10 meters away from the vehicle. For small fires, you can attempt to use the onboard fire extinguisher to spray at the chassis, but never touch the hood to prevent explosions; if the situation worsens, call 119 immediately. For prevention, I recommend regular comprehensive maintenance, especially checking for aging or leaks in the fuel and electrical systems. Inspect the engine compartment weekly for unusual smells or oil stains, always keep a fire extinguisher in the car, and park in shaded areas to avoid engine overheating. These small habits can significantly reduce risks, as safety should always come first.
