A car fire is a potentially life-threatening situation that can happen to anyone on South African roads. While it’s a rare occurrence, knowing how to respond is crucial for your safety and the safety of others. Let’s explore the steps to take if you are caught in a car fire on South African roads and other helpful information about car fires.1
Pay attention to how your vehicle operates – the sounds, smells, and any dashboard messages., Your car usually has a way of signalling when something needs attention, electronically in newer cars, or other signs you might notice in older cars.elaying a visit to the mechanic can lead to hazardous consequences, including fires. Understanding the warning signs is crucial to preventing such incidents. 1
Typical Reasons Behind Car Fires
It is essential to know what the common causes of car fires are or It’s essential l to understand the typical reasons behind car fires:
- Car accident or collision-related damage.
- Electrical wiring faults.
- Malfunctions in the fuel system.
- Breakage of fuel pipes.
- Leaving lit cigarettes inside the vehicle. 1
Potential Signs That Your Car Might Catch Fire
When a car is at risk of catching fire, it emits warning signals. Recognising and responding to these signs promptly can save lives. 1
Here are the main warning signs :
- Repeatedly blown fuses;
- Loose or broken hoses;
- Spilt oil under the hood from recent oil changes;
- Missing oil filler cap;
- Leaking oil or other fluids beneath the car;
- Rapid fluctuations in engine temperature, oil, or fuel levels;
- Loose or cracked wiring;
- Extremely loud sounds from the exhaust system;
- Exposed metal within the car’s wiring.
If you encounter any of these signs while driving, immediately leave your vehicle and move to a safe location. Notify your car’s service centre or mechanic promptly, especially if you are in a remote area. 1
Preventing Car Fires through Regular Maintenance
Regular car servicing is essential for South African motorists as it helps address potential issues early, reducing the risk of car fires. It enhances safety and extends your car’s lifespan while reducing overall ownership costs. 1
Car Insurance for Fire Damage in South Africa
Not all fires are covered by insurance policies in South Africa. Car insurance may cover certain types of fire damage. Please check with your car insurance company about what fire damage your car is covered for. 1
What Should You Do When Your Car Catches Fire?
If your car catches fire while on the road, whether flames are visible, or you smell smoke:
- Stop the car, turn off the engine, and remove the keys to cut off the fuel supply.
- Evacuate the vehicle immediately, assisting others, especially children and the elderly.
- Move at least 30 metres away from the car to ensure safety, considering the risks of explosions.
- Dial emergency services in South Africa, such as 10111, and provide your precise location.
- Contact your car’s service centre for repairs, especially if you are near urban areas, and inform your car insurance company to initiate the claims process.
- Do not attempt to retrieve personal items from the burning vehicle, as safety should be your top priority.
- Avoid trying to extinguish the fire yourself unless equipped with a fire extinguisher and no flames are present in the car’s hood. 1
In case of a car fire, prioritise you and your passengers’ safety, and act quickly. Protect people’s lives, inform emergency services, the police, and involve your car insurance company. 1
Disclaimer
This article is about what to do if your vehicle catches on fire. Please seek help from qualified emergency services as soon as possible and avoid putting your life in harm’s way. 1
Now you know more about vehicle fires and how to protect yourself? How about how you protect your car from accidents with car insurance? Consider buying car insurance with PMD. Select car insurance that offers distinctive advantages. Buy budget-friendly car insurance through PMD, featuring fixed premiums*, reducing excess*, and top-tier service. Terms and conditions apply.
Choose PMD. Choose car insurance with unique benefits. Get affordable Comprehensive car insurance with PMD, with fixed premiums*, reducing excess*, and world-class service. T’s and C’s apply.
Please get professional financial advice from a certified financial advisor to ensure you select the appropriate financial services product.
This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.
Sources:
Video received – Advice for Escape and Safety from Vehicle Fire https://t.co/8uWTcyanv1 #ArriveAlive #VehicleFire @TrafficRTMC @BurnshieldZA pic.twitter.com/TehN7Mz4zI
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) April 3, 2023