What to Do When a Lighter Explodes in the Car?
2 Answers
The liquid inside the lighter expands and contracts with heat, causing the shell to fail under the immense pressure. Additionally, external environmental factors or handling may alter the lighter's internal pressure. Check for injuries and seek medical attention immediately.
If a lighter explodes in your car, don't panic. First, quickly pull over to a safe spot and turn off the engine, then open all windows immediately to ventilate. The butane gas released from the explosion is both toxic and flammable, so ventilation helps rapidly reduce its concentration and prevent secondary explosions. Next, carefully inspect the interior for any signs of fire, paying special attention to hidden areas like dashboard crevices and seat folds. If you spot flames, use the car's fire extinguisher right away. When cleaning up debris, be extra cautious—glass and metal fragments can be extremely sharp, so wearing gloves is advisable. Thoroughly wipe away any liquid residue with a towel to prevent corrosion of leather seats and plastic components. Afterwards, I made sure to check if any wiring was damaged by debris to avoid potential short circuits. This lighter explosion was a serious wake-up call. Now, I always double-check for any forgotten flammable items before leaving the car, especially in summer when interior temperatures can soar to 70-80°C, turning it into a mobile oven.
