How to Escape a Car on Fire: A Step-by-Step Guide to Save Your Life

A car fire is one of the most terrifying emergencies a driver or passenger can face. Whether caused by a collision, electrical fault, fuel leak, or an overheating engine, a vehicle fire can escalate within seconds. Knowing how to react quickly and calmly can mean the difference between life and death. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to escape a car on fire:

1. Stay Calm, Act Fast

Panic slows you down. If you see smoke or flames, immediately shift your mindset to action mode. Time is critical—most car fires become life-threatening within 30 to 60 seconds.

2. Pull Over and Shut Off the Engine

• Steer your vehicle safely to the side of the road.
• Turn off the ignition to stop the flow of fuel.
• Put the car in park and engage the emergency brake.

3. Unbuckle Seatbelts and Help Others

• Unfasten your seatbelt first.
• Check for passengers—especially children, the elderly, or anyone needing assistance—and help them unbuckle quickly.

Anuj Guglani, Co-founder and CEO of CarPhD.com, mentions, “Sometimes the seatbelt buckle gets jammed due to the heat. A seatbelt cutter comes as an accessory. It can be a good idea to keep it under the seat and use it in such moments of emergency to cut the seatbelt. Avoid keeping it in the glove box because the glove box button can also get jammed during a fire hazard. The Driver's door side pockets are ideal to place it.”

4. Exit the Vehicle Immediately

• Open the doors and get out fast. If the doors are jammed:
• Use the manual override lock.
• Break a side window with a hard object (avoid the windshield—it’s reinforced).
• Escape through the nearest functioning door or window.

5. Move at Least 100 Feet Away

• Get far from the car—fires can lead to explosions or the release of toxic fumes.
• Warn others to keep a safe distance.
• Never return to the vehicle to retrieve personal items.

6. Call Emergency Services

• Dial the local emergency number (e.g., 112 or 911).
• Report the exact location and describe the situation.
• Do not assume someone else has already called.

7. Don’t Attempt to Fight a Large Fire

• If the fire is small (e.g., under the hood or near a tire) and you have a car fire extinguisher, you may attempt to put it out from a safe distance.
• Never open the hood fully—it feeds the fire with oxygen and may result in a flash fire.

Bonus Tips: Prepare Before It Happens

• Keep a fire extinguisher, seatbelt cutter, and window breaker in your vehicle.
• Regularly service your car to avoid fuel leaks, overheating, and electrical issues.
• Familiarize yourself with emergency exits and tools, especially in unfamiliar or rented vehicles.

Conclusion

Car fires are rare, but when they happen, they move fast. Preparation, presence of mind, and swift action are key to survival. Remember: material things can be replaced—your life cannot. Always prioritize getting yourself and others to safety first.

Stay safe—and stay ready.