Car fires are one of those unexpected emergencies that no one wants to think about, but they can happen in the blink of an eye. Whether due to a mechanical failure, an electrical issue, or a collision, car fires can escalate quickly, putting your life at risk. In situations like these, having the right tools and knowledge can make all the difference.
At resqme, we understand the importance of being prepared for emergencies. In this post, we’ll cover what you need to do if a fire breaks out in your car, with a focus on how the right safety tools can help you escape swiftly and safely.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first step in any emergency is to remain calm. Car fires can cause panic, but staying level-headed will help you efficiently assess the situation. If you’re in motion when the fire starts, pull over to the side of the road as soon as possible. Be mindful of traffic around you and look for a safe area to stop, like an empty shoulder or parking lot.
Once you’ve stopped, turn off the ignition immediately to stop the flow of fuel. Avoid opening the hood unless you are sure it’s safe to do so. Opening the hood can introduce oxygen and fuel the fire, causing it to spread faster.
2. Evacuate the Vehicle Quickly
If you’re able to do so safely, get out of the vehicle as quickly as possible. Your car is a small, confined space, and a fire can escalate rapidly. The rule of thumb is simple: every second counts.
As you exit, be sure to assist any passengers in the car, especially children or elderly individuals. If the doors are stuck or the seatbelt won’t release due to damage, you’ll need a tool to help you escape.
This is where the resqme car escape tool can play a crucial role. The resqme tool is designed to cut through seatbelts and break tempered glass windows in just seconds—essential functions when you’re trapped in your vehicle during a fire. It’s compact, easy to use, and can make all the difference when you’re trying to escape quickly.
The resqme has two key features:
Seatbelt Cutter: In a fire, the last thing you need is to be delayed by a jammed seatbelt. The resqme tool’s integrated seatbelt cutter helps you get out of your seat quickly.
Window Breaker: If the car windows are stuck, or if you can’t safely open them due to flames, the resqme tool’s window breaker is a life-saving feature. The tool’s black tip is designed to shatter tempered glass windows with minimal effort, allowing you to escape through the glass when you otherwise wouldn’t be able to.
The best part? It’s small enough to fit on your keychain, headrest, sun visor, rearview mirror, or dashboard. You can have it with you at all times, and it’s intuitive enough for anyone to use, regardless of experience or training.
Read a real- life story about a man entrapped in a car in flames rescued by a brave citizen and a resqme car escape tool here- https://www.deseret.com/magazine/2024/12/01/trial-by-fire/
3. Call Emergency Services
Once you’re safely outside the vehicle, call 911 or your local emergency services number immediately. Provide as much information as possible, including your location, the make and model of the vehicle, and whether there are any injuries or individuals still inside.
4. Stay a Safe Distance from the Car
Once you’re out of the car, stay a safe distance away from it. A car fire can lead to an explosion, particularly if the fire reaches the gas tank. Ideally get at least 100 feet away from the vehicle. Don’t return to the car for personal belongings or anything else, as doing so can put your life at risk.
5. Preventing Car Fires Before They Start
While we hope you never find yourself in a car fire situation, it’s always better to be prepared. Prevention is the best way to avoid the dangers of a car fire, and here are some tips to reduce your risk:
- Regular Car Maintenance: Ensure your car is regularly inspected for mechanical issues, especially the electrical system, fuel lines, and engine. A small problem can quickly escalate into a fire.
- Avoid Overloading Electrical Systems: Be cautious when adding accessories to your vehicle, as overloading the electrical system can cause fires. Always have any new installations professionally done.
- Check for Leaks: Leaking fluids (oil, gasoline, etc.) can ignite easily, so it’s important to get any fluid leaks repaired immediately.
- Avoid Smoking in the Car: Cigarettes and other smoking materials should be kept away from your vehicle to reduce the risk of sparking a fire.
Conclusion: Be Prepared for the Unexpected
A car fire is one of the most dangerous emergencies a driver can face, but with the right knowledge and the right tools, you can significantly increase your chances of survival. The resqme car escape tool is an affordable, compact, and effective way to make sure you’re prepared for any situation.
Remember: Stay calm, evacuate the vehicle quickly, call for help, and always have a plan in place. Having the resqme tool in your car can give you the peace of mind knowing that you’re ready if the worst happens.
