3 minute read
What to do if your vehicle catches on fire
from Viewpoint March 2024
by Dorset View
By Dominic Watt | www.firstvehicleleasing.co.uk
Experiencing a vehicle fire is a frightening ordeal, often striking unexpectedly and escalating rapidly. Understanding how to react to such emergencies can make a significant difference, potentially saving lives and minimising property damage.
Immediate Actions
Stay calm; signal your intentions: if you suspect your vehicle is on fire (signs include smoke, unusual odours, or warning lights), remain calm. Signal and move to the nearest safe location to stop, ideally away from traffic and on level ground.
Turn off engine: once stopped, turn off the engine immediately. This action helps to cut the fuel supply, potentially preventing the fire from spreading.
Evacuate the vehicle: ensure you and all passengers exit the vehicle as swiftly and safely as possible. Avoid opening the bonnet, as oxygen can fuel the flames. Move everyone to a safe distance, ideally at least 100 metres away, and keep clear of traffic.
Call emergency services: dial 999 to report the fire. Provide precise details of your location and the situation. The UK emergency services will dispatch the necessary assistance promptly.
Do not attempt to extinguish the fire yourself
While it might be tempting to try and put out the fire, it’s crucial to prioritise safety over property.
Vehicle fires can escalate quickly, presenting significant risks from explosions, toxic fumes, and intense heat.
Legal and financial implications
In the UK, vehicle owners are required to maintain their vehicles in a roadworthy condition. Failure to adhere to maintenance standards can lead to legal repercussions, including fines of up to £5,000, if neglect is proven to contribute to a fire. Regular vehicle checks and servicing can help prevent such incidents.
Insurance considerations
Should your vehicle catch fire, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the incident. Comprehensive insurance policies typically cover fire damage, but it’s crucial to review your policy details. Documenting the incident thoroughly, including photographs and a clear account of events, will support your insurance claim process.
20mph speed limit for Wimborne
A 20mph speed limit is to be imposed in Wimborne, which is amongst five towns and villages to have successfully applied to Dorset Council for new limits and zones. Installation of the new signs will begin in April.
Further applications for Allenview Road/Burts Hill in Wimborne Okeford Fitzpaine, Child Okeford, Milborne St Andrew, Winterborne Kingston and Cheselbourne are now being assessed by Dorset Council.
Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said: “This initiative is in response to community concerns about road safety and healthy areas in towns and villages.” He added, the 20mph schemes give the maximum benefit for the affected communities and ensure greater safety for pedestrians and cyclists and those using a mobility scooter, wheelchair, or similar mobility aid.
Residents interested in the introduction of new 20mph speed limits in their local area should contact their town or parish council or local Dorset councillor.
