Fire and electric shock
Contents
Fire
Carrying a suitable fire extinguisher in your vehicle may help you to put out a small fire.
If you suspect a fire in the engine compartment
- pull up as safely and as quickly as possible
- get all passengers out safely
- summon assistance or get someone to dial 999 or 112
- don’t open the bonnet
- you may be able to direct any available fire extinguisher through the small gap available when the release catch is operated.
- if the fire appears to be large, don’t try to tackle it; get well clear of the vehicle and leave it to the fire service
- don’t take any risks.
Remember, fire can spread through a vehicle with alarming speed.
If you notice a strong smell of petrol, don’t ignore it – alert the emergency services to it when they arrive.
Electric shock
Some incidents involve a vehicle hitting overhead cables or electrical supplies to traffic bollards, traffic lights or street lights. Check before trying to get someone out of a vehicle in such cases.
Don’t touch any person who’s obviously in contact with live electricity unless you can use some non-conducting item, such as a piece of dry wood, plastic or similar – anything wet shouldn’t be used. You mustn’t try to give first aid until electrical contact has been broken.
A person can also be electrocuted simply by being too close to a high-voltage overhead cable. Contact the provider (their telephone number may be shown on a nearby pole), then follow their advice.