How to Respond When the Engine Catches Fire While Driving?
2 Answers
Here are the methods to respond when the engine catches fire while driving: 1. Emergency response, do not panic: Car fires usually have warning signs, such as unusual noises or odors from the vehicle. At this point, you should decisively turn off the engine, stop the car, and cut off the fuel supply. When searching for the source of the fire, be careful not to open the hood randomly, as allowing air into the engine compartment can fuel the fire. Only open the hood after retrieving the fire extinguisher. 2. Control the fire and locate the source: If the fire is under the engine hood or dashboard, it is often caused by electrical equipment failure or fuel system leakage. In this case, drive the car away from the traffic lane as soon as possible, turn off the ignition, have all passengers exit the vehicle quickly, and use the onboard fire extinguisher to put out the fire.
When the engine suddenly catches fire while driving, it's a big trouble and requires immediate action. I experienced it once and was really scared, but I managed to stay calm and handle it. First, quickly pull over to the side of the road, preferably in an open area to avoid affecting others. Then, turn off the engine to prevent the fire from spreading. But never open the hood, as the influx of oxygen can intensify the flames. After getting out of the car, immediately move away to a safe distance of at least 20 meters, as the battery or fuel lines might explode. Then, quickly call 119 to report the incident, describing the location and situation. If the fire is small, try using a portable fire extinguisher to spray the base; if the fire is large, abandon the effort—safety comes first. Later, investigate the cause, which is usually due to fuel leaks or aging wires, so I regularly check the fuel lines and wiring harnesses. Keeping a fire extinguisher in the car can save lives, and replacing it annually is crucial. The lesson is that safety comes first, so always check the dashboard for any warning signs before driving.
