Cars can catch fire for many reasons. While mechanical or electrical issues are the most common cause cars can also catch fire as the result of a bad crash. If you see smoke or flames or smell burning rubber or plastic, you must respond IMMEDIATELY. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so below are things you can do to help prevent fires from occurring in your car.
- Have your car serviced regularly by a professionally trained mechanic. If you spot leaks or your car is not running properly, get it checked immediately. A well-maintained car is less likely to have a fire.
- If you must transport gasoline in cans, transport only a small amount in a certified gas can that is sealed. Keep a window open for ventilation.
- Gas cans and propane cylinders should never be transported in the passenger compartment. Secure these containers in the trunk or bed of the vehicle and transport them for the least time and distance required.
- Never park a car where flammables materials can come into contact with hot car components (such as the exhaust system).
- Be able to recognize ‘red flags’ that can contribute to car fires such as cracked/loose wiring, fuses that blow despite replacement, loose/leaking hoses, and rapid changes in fluid/engine temperature and pressures.
- Always drive safely to help avoid accidents.
If you suspect that your car is catching fire:
- IMMEDIATELY pull over when safe to do so.
- Once the car is stopped: place the car in park, set the emergency brake and turn off the engine.
- Evacuate yourself and everyone in the car as quickly and safely as possible. Move away from the car and the road.
- Once outside and away from the car: GET OUT AND STAY OUT. Do not return to the car FOR ANY REASON.
- Call 9-1-1 and await emergency assistance.
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4/23/16: At approximately 0330 Company 20 was alerted 3rd due to respond with Companies 23, 17, and 19 for a commercial/restaurant fire at Colasante’s Restaurant. This was the second working structure fire for the members of Company 20 within the past 24 hours. All companies on scene worked diligently to contain and extinguish the fire which resulted in minimal fire and smoke damage to the restaurant and bar portion of the structure. However, crews on scene also had to work to extinguish fire in an apartment and small office that was attached to the restaurant which was heavily damaged during the incident. Colasante’s restaurant is family owned and has been a mainstay of the greater Morgantown community for over 40 years. During interviews with local news crews after the incident the Colasante family have made intentions to rebuild and reopen the restaurant as soon as they can. Units remained on scene until the early morning hours to complete extinguishment of primary fire and hot spots, salvage and overhaul before returning to service.
4/22/16: Company 20 was alerted to assist Company 12 with a structure fire off of Brookhaven Road. Engine 201 and Unit 202 responded to the incident and was tasked by Command 12 with ventilation, pulling ceiling to check for hot spots/extension, and replacement hoseline operations for first arriving units on scene. Due to the quick and efficient work of all units on scene the fire was able to be contained quickly and much of the homeowner’s possessions were able to be salvaged after the fire was extinguished. Company 20 units spent approximately three hours on scene and then were returned to service by Command 12. A special thanks to Mon EMS for responding to scene with their newly acquired rehabilitation trailer to assist fire personnel on scene.
