Sometimes instead of getting fired up, you want to put the fire out.  

Because is there anything to get more heated up over than thinking about your safety and those you love? 

According to recent statistics, there were around 173,000 U.S. highway vehicle fires reported in 2020 (down from the pre-pandemic 2019 with 189,500). Luckily, this is only a percentage of the more than 261 million registered vehicles (which doesn’t even take into account all the semi-trucks, motorcycles, and buses on the road).   

But still, if a fire happens to you, you’re going to want to know what to do — and better yet, how to prevent them in the first place.   

It’s kind of like Smokey the Bear always said, “Only you can prevent (wild)fires.”

Engine fires are often caused by problems with a vehicle’s electrical wiring, fuel systems, or even cigarettes or nail polish (yes, seriously) left in the car. Of course, collisions can also cause a fire. There are even safety considerations to take into account where you park. 

Safety first, safety always. Sparks are good in a relationship, not your engine. So learn what to look out for now as it could help avoid dangerous conditions in the future.  

• Fuses that blow repeatedly 

• Spilled oil under the hood left over from an oil change 

• Oil or other fluid leaks under the car 

• Damaged, cracked or loose wiring — or wiring with exposed metal 

• Rapid changes in fuel or fluid levels, oil changes, or engine temperature 

• A missing cap from the oil filter (or one that doesn’t properly fit) 

• Loud noises from the exhaust system 

• Worn out, broken or loose hoses 

• The smell of burning rubber or metal 

And keep in mind that car fires can occur in places beyond the engine. They can break out under the vehicle, near the wheels and brakes, in your dashboard, or inside the car.  

Keep your ride cool, not (literal) fire with these preventative measures:

• Do NOT smoke in your car or keep cigarettes inside 

• Do NOT leave flammables in your car (i.e., extra gasoline, lighter fluid, aerosol cans, alcohol — and yep, even nail polish) 

• Do NOT park in tall grass — which can heat up a car’s undercarriage  

• Always bring your car in for regular car maintenance — not only can it help potentially keep fuel costs down but it may help locate an issue before it turns into one) 

• Scan the area for any potential fire hazards (like downed power lines or other dangerous storm damages) 

• And of course… always limit reckless driving behaviors that can lead to collisions 

Keep calm, even in the face of flames, fumes, and smoke. We all grew up hearing ‘stop, drop, and roll.’ But when it comes to your car, there’s just a few extra points to remember: 

• Signal and immediately move to the closest safe place to stop (such as a side lane or median) 

• Stop the car, turn off the ignition 

• Get every person/animal out of the vehicle immediately (don’t stop for personal items) 

• Move away from the burning car — at least 100 feet — and keep any passers-by back as well to avoid flames and toxic fumes 

• Call 911 

• Alert oncoming traffic if possible 

• Take names and numbers of witnesses, along with photos of your car — if your cell was left behind, ask to borrow someone else’s (don’t go back to get the phone)

Once the fire is extinguished, you’ll want to contact your insurance agent to see if the coverage you selected covers a car fire and then file a claim. You’ll also want to have your car towed and inspected. Attempting to operate it again prior to inspection could be dangerous. 

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As always, empowered drivers are safer drivers, more thoughtful drivers, and more engaged drivers. Check out more tips on our blog, including:

• 6 Ways to Defend Yourself Against Drunk Drivers

• Dating 101: How Can Your Car Drive Up Attraction?

• 5 Ways to Avoid Distracted Driving

• 9 Surprising Hacks to Save Money at the Gas Station

What are you waiting for? Join the ride and get a quote today and see how techno-driven coverage can lower your premiums.