Fire and electric shock

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.