Tips for Dealing with a Car Fire

What do you do if your car catches fire while you are driving?  That is a horrible situation but one that we all should be prepared to handle.  Rabun County Assistant Fire Chief Justin Upchurch says pull over immediately if you see smoke.  “If you are driving down the road and you do notice smoke or anything that you might think that your vehicle has caught on fire, pull over as quickly as you can where it is safe to do so.  If you can, once you have it stopped, turn off your engine and get everyone out of the car, just like you would in a house, make that the priority.  Never return to a burning car for anything.  Move everyone at least 100 feet from the burning and well away from traffic and then call 911.”  Chief Upchurch offers these tips on preventing car fires from happening.  “If you have any leaks or if your car is not running properly, always get it checked.  A well-maintained car is less likely to have a fire.  If you must transport gasoline, transport only a small amount in a certified gas can that is sealed.  Always keeping windows open for ventilation or in the bed of your pickup would be even better.  Never transport gas cans or propane cylinders in the passenger compartment.  Never park where flammables, such as grass, are touching the catalytic converter.  The catalytic converter gets very hot and so, if you park in tall grass there is a chance of setting the grass on fire, and of course, that could lead to a car fire.”  Also, be aware of the danger signs that could cause a car fire, adds Chief Upchurch.  “Cracked or loose wiring or electrical problems.  Fuses that constantly are blowing.  Oil or fluid leaks.  Your oil cap is not on securely.  Rapid changes in fuel or fluid levels or engine temperatures can cue you into something that is not right with your car and you need to have it checked as soon as possible.”  Please follow this safety advice about car fires from the Rabun County Fire Department.