“Smoke billows from car fire,” “Vehicles engulfed in flames, “Fiery crash kills…” you’ve seen the headlines. You know how common crashes are, accidents… in fact, around 200,000 vehicles catch fire in the U.S. each year. That accounts for 16% of all fire incidents annually! Clearly, accidents are going to happen. So, best be prepared!
Safe driving is one way to prevent your car (and you) from turning into a set of hot wheels. Moving over for emergency vehicles, driving the speed limit, leaving space between yourself and other vehicles, limiting distractions, driving sober… the list goes on! But, if you want to go the extra mile, you’ll need to start preventing vehicles fires before you get out on the road. Maintaining your vehicle is the key! Leaking fuels and oils, worn tires, overheating, dragging parts, missing pieces, loose wires- those all start fires. You’re mechanics fees are worth it to protect your life and the lives of everybody else on the open road!
Preparedness doesn’t stop at prevention. Being prepared means being ready: having the tools, knowledge, and skills you need in case of a vehicle fire! How will you contact the fire department? There’s an app for that! How will you get out of the vehicle? There’s a tool for that! Think through what obstacles may stand in your way and how you can address them. Are you physically capable of getting in and out of your vehicle by yourself? Do you normally have passengers who need assistance getting out of the vehicle? Do you bring your pet along with you often? Are you normally cruising down country roads with minimal traffic or flying down the highway? Are there lots of people around to call for help where you normally drive? Do you encounter roadwork or farming equipment or wait on school buses a lot??? These are just a few of the variables you may need to consider when preparing for roadway fires.
Don’t forget: You aren’t just preparing for your vehicle to catch fire, you might encounter another motorist with their own vehicle fire or a wildfire! By being prepared for a fire on the go, you can help more than just yourself.
There are a multitude of resources to prepare you for numerous kinds of vehicles mishaps. From apps that automatically send crash notifications to 9-1-1 to seat belt cutting tools that fit in your pocket- the solutions are out there. When it comes to safety products make sure you only purchase listed, tested items. Be discerning when it comes to product descriptions and reviews. When in doubt, contact your local experts AKA fire departments, EMS crews, and police force! There’s one sure-fire way to be prepared for a vehicle fire, and we’re all set to give you expert advice on that right now: Fire Extinguishers.
- Only purchase extinguishers from trusted sources- not “extinguisher in a can” from the internet!
- Opt for extinguishers that are rechargeable and serviceable- “service every six years” or “recharge after use” will be listed on these extinguishers’ labels.
- Look for extinguishers sold with vehicles brackets to keep the extinguisher safe and secure.
- Choose the right kind of extinguisher, either an ABC or BC dry chemical extinguisher are best for vehicles.
- Location, Location, Location… smaller extinguishers, 2.5# and 5# units, will fit into your vehicle better than larger, 10# or 20#, units.
- Make sure you know how to use it! Remember: PASS. Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep. (Do NOT test your extinguisher to make sure it works.)
Driving safe isn’t just about catchy slogans. It’s about prevention and preparedness. So, make sure you are maintaining your vehicle, planning ahead for emergencies on the road, and have what you need should an accident happen! As always, if you need assistance in determining what extinguisher is right for you just give us a buzz. We are always happy to help keep you #FireSafe!
