Vehicle Fire Safety Tips

Fire deaths resulting from motor vehicle accidents are growing rapidly in Malaysia recently. Motor vehicles are constructed with a variety of synthetic and often flammable materials, that burn very hot and produce harmful gases. Petrol and other flammable fluids are also present.

Some parts of a vehicle can burst or explode when heated by a fire, sending debris a great distance. These are precisely why firefighters wear full protective gear and breathing apparatus when confronting a vehicle fire. Without this type of protection the average citizen is very vulnerable to serious injuries or worse.

General Precautions:

• Regularly check the hoses, gaskets, and fittings on your engine for any leaks or cracks.

• Place a multipurpose fire extinguisher in your car and make sure it is easily seen and accessible.

• A catalytic converter is part of your car's exhaust system, after the engine, and before the muffler. Be aware of this high temperature heat source and take care not to park where "burnables" may come in contact with it.

• Maintain your car according to manufacturer's specification. If you notice unusually high fuel consumption, changes in your cars performance, or sense strange odors coming from the vehicle, have it checked out by a professional.

• Use your ash tray, rather than an open window. Cigarettes do not self-extinguish and are the cause of most open area fires.
 

If the hood or dash begins smoking, pull over and turn off the engine. Move quickly away from a burning vehicle and remain at a safe distance. Call 999.

If there are visible flames in the engine compartment, DO NOT RAISE THE HOOD, it could flash over and cause you serious injury. If you have a fire extinguisher, stick the nozzle through the front grill and spray the engine area thoroughly, then wait for the fire department at a safe distance from your car.