What to do when your car is on fire

The Community Group Firefighters Association has encouraged motorists to take measures to reduce the risk of vehicle fires occurring, and have told motorists what to do when their car is on fire.

This after three of the association’s firefighters recently visited Panda Pen Nursery School in Boskruin, to talk about fire safety and show the youngsters how some of their gear works.

These measures include:

• Have your vehicles inspected at least annually by a trained, professional technician? Watch for fluid leaks under vehicles, cracked and blistered hoses, wiring that is loose, has exposed metal or has cracked insulation.
• Be alert to changes in the way your vehicle sounds when running, and watch for a visible plume of smoke coming from your exhaust. A louder than usual exhaust tone, smoke coming from the tailpipe or a backfiring exhaust could mean problems.

If your car is on fire

• If the car is on fire, stay as calm as you can. Panic is dangerous and can cause mistakes that could end up tragic. If the vehicle is moving, move to the side of the road. The less fresh oxygen the fire has, the better.
• Turn off the ignition to shut off the electric current and stop the flow of fuel. Put the vehicle in park or set the emergency brake.
• Make sure everyone gets out of the vehicle, and don’t waste time looking for your belongings. Move at least 30m away. Keep traffic in mind and keep everyone together. There is not only danger from the fire and smoke, but also from other vehicles moving in the area
• Don’t forget to call for help.

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Firefighters visit Panda Pen Nursery School