Car fires and evacuation
A car fire escalates quickly. A clear evacuation plan, rapid warning and the right distance from the vehicle protect lives while you wait for emergency services.
Preparation
- Carry the full emergency kit: warning triangle, reflective vests and extinguisher, see Emergency equipment in the car .
- Brief passengers on how to leave the vehicle, inspired by Handling emergencies .
- Keep the vehicle in roadworthy condition, with particular focus on leaks and electrical faults, see Roadworthy condition .
- Make sure everyone knows the emergency numbers 110 (fire) and 112 (police).
Risk assessment on the move
| Risk | Warning signs | Immediate action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine compartment fire | Burning smell, smoke from bonnet | Stop safely, shut down power, begin evacuation |
| Electrical overheating | Warning lamps, high battery temperature | Follow guidance from Charging an EV , keep distance |
| Cabin fire | Smoke from dashboard or seats | Put on reflective vests, open doors cautiously, lead passengers out |
| Collision with fuel leak | Smell of fuel, sparks | Move upwind and uphill if possible, alert traffic |
When smoke appears
- Stop safely. Activate the parking brake and set the transmission in park or first gear.
- Switch everything off: ignition, main switch or emergency stop.
- Instruct passengers clearly. Point to the direction you will move.
- Evacuate at least 100 metres away, preferably upwind.
- Alert 110 or 112. Provide location, vehicle type and injuries.
- Secure the scene with warning triangle and reflective vests, see Driving in the dark for placement after dark.
Extra care with electric vehicles
- Never touch the battery pack or orange cables.
- Increase the safety distance to 150 metres if the traction battery burns.
- Tell emergency services that it is an EV so they can deploy the right tactics.
Evacuation logic
| Step | Action | Key detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Check surroundings | Look for traffic before opening doors | Support people who need assistance |
| 2. Grab critical items | Reflective vests, phone, first-aid kit | Leave luggage behind |
| 3. Guide passengers | Gather everyone behind the warning triangle | Maintain visual contact with children |
| 4. Create a safe zone | Move behind barriers or onto the verge | Keep bystanders away from the vehicle |
| 5. Wait for responders | Follow the fire brigade’s instructions | Use eCall and SOS functions if available |
After the fire
- Do not attempt to restart the car; arrange recovery through professionals.
- Note times, actions taken and contact details of witnesses.
- Inform your insurance company and take photos from a safe distance.
- Monitor anyone who inhaled smoke and contact medical services if symptoms appear.
Train the scenario
- Practise evacuations at home once a year so everyone knows their role.
- Review tunnel routines with Driving in tunnels .
- Combine the plan with first-aid refreshers in First aid and behaviour at accidents .