Street Survival - Advanced Defensive Driving

SAFETY > FIRE > COLLISION

Collision

 Free YouTube Subscription

A crash is frightening, but when a fire breaks out moments later, it becomes a race against time. Flames can erupt with terrifying speed after a collision, turning a dangerous situation into a life-threatening emergency. In the chaos of impact, when drivers and passengers are stunned or disoriented, knowing what to do next can save lives. Acting fast, recognizing warning signs, and understanding how vehicle fires start are essential steps in staying safe.

What should you do if a fire breaks out after a car crash? How can you tell if it is safe to remain in the vehicle? When should you attempt to help others get out? Where is the safest place to move to after escaping the vehicle? What if someone is unconscious or injured and cannot move? How do you alert emergency services effectively during a fire? What steps should you take to avoid additional explosions or hazards? What warning signs should drivers look for immediately after impact? Why do some crashes ignite while others do not? How can drivers prepare for this kind of emergency? What conditions turn a typical accident into a dangerous fire emergency?

This page provides clear, practical guidance to help you respond quickly and decisively if fire follows a collision. It explains how post-crash fires start, which warning signs to watch for, and what actions to take when every second counts. You’ll learn how to assess your surroundings, assist others, and protect yourself while waiting for help. Whether you are driving on a busy highway or a quiet backroad, understanding these critical steps prepares you to act with calm, purpose, and confidence.

The intensity and size of the fire will determine the course to follow:

How collisions can lead to fires and what drivers should know

Intense Sizeable Fire

  • Do not return to the vehicle to collect possessions.

  • Once free of the vehicle, stand a LONG distance (at least 100 feet) from it due to the threat of an explosion.

Smaller Contained Fire

  • If you have the correct type of fire extinguisher and can get to it safely, you may be able to put out the fire.

  • Sand and earth can also be used.

  • Stand upwind of the air flow as that will keep you free of any smoke and direct the heat away from you.

  • If located in the engine bay, do not lift the hood as this will feed the fire with oxygen.

  • Do NOT use water to put out the fire. If oil is alight it will cause the flame to flare up. It could also spread any fuel that is alight to other areas where it can cause further problems.

🡄 Previous Page                                                                      Next Page 🡆

Street Survival - Advanced Defensive Driving