MOTOR VEHICLE FIRE/BURN SAFETY

- Vehicle Radiator Burns - Gasoline Safety - What if the vehicle catches fire? - Recreational Vehicles - Vehicles Left in the Sun - At the Fuel Pump Print This Page

VEHICLE RADIATOR BURNS (Return to Top)

When a vehicle is running and the radiator is functioning properly, the temperature of the fluid is normally between 195 degrees F (90 degrees C) and 200 degrees F (103 degrees C). That is hot enough to cause serious scald burns in less than one second. When the radiator overheats, the temperature increases drastically and pressure builds. When the cap is removed, the liquid boils or even explodes out, potentially causing serious burn injuries. Common injury sites, primarily to adult males, are to the, hands, face, arms and chest areas of the body. In addition to scalds, radiator fluid contains antifreeze that may cause chemical burns.

• Before any long trip, have your car serviced.
• If your car overheats, turn off the car and wait at least one-half hour before attempting to open the radiator.
• Use a heavy rag or cloth to open a radiator.
• Never look into or lean over the radiator opening. Stand back as far as possible. Keep your face out of the way.
• Carry a first aid kit in your vehicle.

GASOLINE SAFETY (Return to Top)

• If you smell gasoline or suspect a gasoline leak from your vehicle, do not operate the vehicle until the leak is repaired.
• Never fill portable gas containers in the vehicle. Remove them from the vehicle before filling.
• When fueling your vehicle, always turn off the ignition and do not smoke.
• When transporting portable gasoline containers, ensure the container is approved for gasoline storage and it is sealed tightly.
• Do not leave a portable gasoline container in your vehicle longer than is necessary, especially on a warm and sunny day

WHAT IF THE VEHICLE CATCHES FIRE? (Return to Top)

• Turn off the ignition, place in park and engage the brake.
• Evacuate the vehicle, shut the doors and keep area clear for a safe distance.
• Be sure fire department is called.
• Only "pop" the hood, do not lift it, and spray fire extinguisher under the edge of the hood.
• If the fire is inside the vehicle, discharge contents of the extinguisher directly in and shut the door.

RECREATIONAL VEHICLES (Return to Top)

• Install an ABC type fire extinguisher near each exit and know how to use it.
• Install smoke alarms designated for recreational vehicles.
• Have an escape plan for your vehicle.
• If you smell gas:
  • Extinguish all open flames (pilot lights, lamps, smoking materials, etc.)
  • Do not operate electrical switches. It can create a spark that may cause an explosion.
  • Shut off gas supply.
  • Leave the unit until all vapors are gone.
  • Have gas system checked and repaired before using again.
• Do not use cooking appliances for comfort heating.
• All other home fire safety precautions also apply to recreational vehicles.

VEHICLES LEFT IN THE SUN (Return to Top)

Vehicles left in the sun become solar ovens. Hot interior surfaces can burn.

• Park in the shade whenever possible. If there is no shade, cover seats with light-colored sheets, blankets or towels.
• Before placing children in restraint system or on seats, test surface temperatures. If still to hot, leave covering in place.

AT THE FUEL PUMP (Return to Top)

Preventing the buildup of static electricity is also a factor in safe refueling. Static electricity could cause a fire at the gas pumps, especially in cool or cold and dry climate conditions.

• Avoid getting back into your vehicle during refueling, even when using the nozzle's hold-open latch. If you can't avoid getting back into your vehicle, always touch a metal part of the vehicle, such as the door, away from the gas tank after you exit the vehicle before touching the nozzle.
• Place portable containers on the ground during filling, and keep the nozzle in contact with the container. Never fill a container in or on a vehicle.
• Manually control the nozzle throughout the filling process, and fill a portable container slowly to decrease the chance of static buildup and to minimize spilling or splattering.

The safety information enclosed was compiled from the best sources available to us. The Illinois Fire Safety Alliance and authors cannot assume any liability for its effectiveness in every emergency situation.