Why do cars catch fire?

159 fires occurred in the Vitebsk region over the first two months of this year, which is 10.4% more than in the same period last year. However, the number of fatalities in fires decreased by 36.4%, totaling 14 people, while another 17 people sustained injuries.

Among the causes of fires, the leading position is occupied by violations of the rules for the installation and operation of electrical networks and electrical equipment – 56 fires (an increase of 24.4%). Six fewer fires occurred due to violations of the rules for the installation and operation of stoves and other heat-generating appliances – 50 fires (an increase of 35.1%). Closing the top three causes is careless handling of fire – 41 fires (a decrease of 26.8%).

The increase in the number of fires involving vehicles and mobile equipment is alarming – compared to the same period last year, there was a 46.4% increase, totaling 19 fires.

In 18 cases, the cause of vehicle fires was an emergency mode of operation of electrical equipment. However, this does not mean that other causes can be disregarded. It is very important to pay close attention to the installation of gas cylinder equipment, as well as heating systems, which should only be installed in specialized service centers. Additionally, when operating such equipment, all safety requirements specified by the manufacturer must be followed. Another common cause of fires is poor installation of additional electrical and heating equipment (such as engine pre-heating systems like Webasto, Gidronik, remote starters, alarms, cabin heaters, seat heaters, steering wheel heaters, etc.) in vehicles. Such systems must be installed in specialized service centers with qualified specialists.

Furthermore, to avoid a fire in your vehicle:

- ensure timely maintenance checks;

- never refuel with the engine running, do not transport gasoline in plastic containers (plastic accumulates static electricity, which can ignite gasoline) and do not use open flames in close proximity to flammable and combustible liquids;

- if your vehicle frequently burns out bulbs or fuses, do not wait, but immediately take the car to a service center for an electrician's inspection, as this may be a result of a short circuit that could lead to a fire;

- monitor the fuel hoses of your vehicle - any wire under the hood should be properly insulated.

- ensure the gas equipment is functioning properly if installed in your vehicle - if you smell gas, immediately consult a specialist;

- do not charge batteries directly on vehicles;

- do not heat engines with open flames (bonfires, torches, blowtorches), and do not use open flames for lighting.

If a vehicle fire does occur:

- stop the vehicle, turn off the engine, and evacuate passengers, taking documents and belongings;

- set the vehicle's parking brake;

- report the incident by calling 101 or 112;

- while waiting for rescuers, try to extinguish the fire yourself. If you have a fire extinguisher, slightly open the hood and insert the nozzle into the gap, attempting to extinguish the flames as much as possible. Then open the hood and disconnect the battery by removing the terminals. Remember that the metal may have already heated up.

- after the vehicle is de-energized, you can use improvised means to extinguish the fire – sand, water, snow, or throw a heavy cloth over it.

- if the fire engulfs the rear of the vehicle where the fuel tank is located, quickly move as far away from the vehicle as possible.

Follow safety rules. Take care of yourself and your loved ones.