Nobody wants any disaster to happen, but a smart person is someone who is always prepared for the worst. Likewise, while you definitely don’t want your car to catch fire, but if it does, you must know your plan of action. Each day, several vehicles including cars catch fire in India. Sometimes the cause is unknown and, in some cases, it may even lead to fatalities.
If you understand cars, you know that oil, petrol, and diesel are extremely flammable liquids and hence even a small spark could lead to a massive fire, if not identified at the right time. So, in today’s article, we are going to tell you what you should do when your car catches fire.
- Don’t ignore the warning signs: As we mentioned earlier, if you smart enough to identify the warning signs, then you can save your car from catching fire. Signs such as smoke from the engine, leaks, sparks, extreme heating, and questionable changes in your fuel or oil level. Every once in a while, you must get your car checked at your nearest mechanic. If you have car insurance online, then you can book an appointment online and have it checked.
- Pullover: If you see any of these signs or can smell something burning, do not ignore it. Please pull over instantly. Immediately, seek help. If you have a car insurance online policy, then you reach out to your car insurance online agent and he will send help. Remember, this feature is only available for comprehensive and not third-party car insurance. These features are the reason why comprehensive car insurance online policy tends to more expensive than a third-party car insurance policy.
- Evacuate: Firstly, make sure you switch off the car as soon as you are alarmed about the fire. Keeping the car on could worsen the situation. Before you call for help, make sure you have evacuated the car. Even if there’s the slightest of the doubt about fire, evacuate the car. It is better to be safe than sorry. Make sure everyone is standing at a safe distance from the car.
- Forget what’s in the car: When you evacuate in panic, you might forget a thing or two in the car. No matter how expensive or valuable it may be, avoid going back to the car until it’s safe. There’s no timer in such events, anything can happen anytime. And that’s why it's wise to steer clear from the car. Forget whatever is inside.
- You are not a firefighter: Another thing is that don’t try to be a firefighter yourself. If your car is on fire, please do not try and extinguish the fire. Wait for professional help. Yes, it will hurt to see your car burn in front of your eyes. But trying to douse it yourself could put your life at risk. You may get another car, but life? If you have comprehensive car insurance online, then you need not worry about the damages. A car fire is usually included in your policy coverage. Be vigilant and the best precautionary measure is to buy a comprehensive car insurance online cover or an add-on that provides protection against car fire.