Vehicle Fire Safety
Each year the Bushkill Twp. Vol. Fire Co. responds to numerous vehicle fires. Most of these fires could be prevented if the owners invested in maintenance. The older a vehicle gets, the more important maintenance is and may prevent a fire. Most vehicles catch on fire from mechanical or electrical issues. They can also catch on fire after a bad crash. This will save you time and money in the long run.
How to prevent a vehicle fire
* Have your car serviced regularly by a professionally trained mechanic. If you see leaking fluids or the vehicle is not running properly, take it to be checked.
* If you have to transport gasoline, transport it in small amounts ONLY in UL Listed containers that is sealed. Keep windows open for ventilation.
* Gas cans and propane cylinders should NEVER be transported in the passenger compartment.
* Drive safe to avoid an accident.
* Never park cars where flammables such as grass are touching hot surfaces of the car.
* Check all gas lines for loose fittings, cracks in hoses, bent lines or loose clamps yearly.
* Ensure the air cleaner is clean and properly placed and secured.
* Visually inspect the electrical system for broken or frayed wires in the engine and passenger compartments. Make sure they are also making a good connection.
* Never throw any burning materials out a vehicle window, it may blow back in the vehicle.
* Be careful smoking inside the vehicle, using the cigarette lighter or using an open flame.
* Lock your vehicle when leaving it, this prevents others from entering it and possibly setting it on fire.
* Look for rapid changes in fuel and fluid levels as well as engine temperatures.
* Make sure the oil cap is secured properly.
* Pay attention to any vehicle recalls.
What to do if your vehicle is on fire
* Pull over as quickly as it is to do safely.
* Turn off the engine as soon as you are stopped.
* Get everyone out of the vehicle, NEVER return to a burning vehicle.
* Call 911 and move at least 100 feet from the burning vehicle and traffic.
* If it is a small fire, you may try to extinguish it if you can do so safely with a fire extinguisher.
How to prevent a vehicle fire
* Have your car serviced regularly by a professionally trained mechanic. If you see leaking fluids or the vehicle is not running properly, take it to be checked.
* If you have to transport gasoline, transport it in small amounts ONLY in UL Listed containers that is sealed. Keep windows open for ventilation.
* Gas cans and propane cylinders should NEVER be transported in the passenger compartment.
* Drive safe to avoid an accident.
* Never park cars where flammables such as grass are touching hot surfaces of the car.
* Check all gas lines for loose fittings, cracks in hoses, bent lines or loose clamps yearly.
* Ensure the air cleaner is clean and properly placed and secured.
* Visually inspect the electrical system for broken or frayed wires in the engine and passenger compartments. Make sure they are also making a good connection.
* Never throw any burning materials out a vehicle window, it may blow back in the vehicle.
* Be careful smoking inside the vehicle, using the cigarette lighter or using an open flame.
* Lock your vehicle when leaving it, this prevents others from entering it and possibly setting it on fire.
* Look for rapid changes in fuel and fluid levels as well as engine temperatures.
* Make sure the oil cap is secured properly.
* Pay attention to any vehicle recalls.
What to do if your vehicle is on fire
* Pull over as quickly as it is to do safely.
* Turn off the engine as soon as you are stopped.
* Get everyone out of the vehicle, NEVER return to a burning vehicle.
* Call 911 and move at least 100 feet from the burning vehicle and traffic.
* If it is a small fire, you may try to extinguish it if you can do so safely with a fire extinguisher.
