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21 May 2025 (updated) What should you do to reduce the risk of your vehicle catching fire?
Vehicle fires can pose a significant risk to both occupants and property, so it is vital that you take proactive steps to reduce the risk. Starting with regular maintenance checks to careful handling of flammable materials, adopting preventive practices can significantly decrease the likelihood of a car catching fire. With this in mind, we will outline what you can do to protect your vehicle from the potential threat of fire.
Which fluids are flammable?
Is engine oil flammable?
While engine oil for car itself is flammable, it's important to note that it usually requires a high temperature to burst into flames. Under normal operating conditions within an engine, the oil does not reach temperatures high enough to spontaneously ignite. However, if car oil comes into contact with a hot surface or an open flame outside the engine, it can catch fire.
Is brake fluid flammable?
Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid that is commonly used in hydraulic braking and clutch systems in vehicles. It is specifically designed to have a high boiling point so that it can withstand the heat generated during braking. However, it is important to note that brake fluid is still flammable and caution should be taken to avoid exposing it to open flames or high temperatures.
Can diesel catch fire?
Diesel fuel is less explosive than petrol, but it can still catch fire if handled carelessly. Therefore, it's essential to follow safety guidelines when storing, transporting or working with diesel-powered equipment. To ensure safety, it's important to use appropriate containers for diesel fuel, avoid open flames and sparks around it, and ensure proper ventilation in storage areas. It's worth noting that diesel engines work differently than petrol engines. They ignite the diesel fuel through compression rather than by a spark, and the combustion process is controlled within the engine's cylinders.
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Signs that your car will catch on fire
It is crucial to recognise the signs that your car may be on fire to take prompt action and ensure the safety of the occupants and the vehicle itself. One important indicator is the presence of smoke or flames coming from the engine compartment. If you notice an acrid or burning smell in the passenger compartment, it could be a sign of a possible fire.
Electrical problems such as flickering lights, sparking or the smell of melting insulation may also precede a fire. In some cases, a sudden and unexplained loss of power or activation of the engine warning light may indicate a developing problem.
Can a car battery catch on fire?
Car batteries rarely pose a fire risk, but it can happen under certain conditions. When charging, car batteries produce hydrogen gas due to the mixture of sulphuric acid and water they contain. If there is an ignition source, such as a spark, near the car battery, there is a potential for fire to occur. Conditions that may contribute to this include overcharging, short circuits in the vehicle's electrical system or physical damage to the battery. You can minimise the risk of fire by taking precautions to avoid sparks and naked flames when working near a battery.
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Worst-case scenario: the car catches fire
In case your car catches fire, it is crucial to take quick and decisive action to ensure your safety. If possible, calmly pull over to a secure location away from traffic, pedestrians, and flammable objects. Turn off the engine immediately to cut off the fuel supply and minimise the risk of the fire spreading. Evacuate the vehicle straight away, leaving any personal belongings behind if necessary. Dial the Fire and Rescue Services (999) to report the fire, giving them full details of your location and the situation.
Use vehicle fire extinguisher only if the fire is small and manageable, always prioritising your safety. Keep a safe distance from the vehicle because flames and heat can spread rapidly. Alert others in the vicinity and do not try to open the bonnet as it may worsen the situation. Wait for professional help to deal with the fire and do not re-enter the vehicle. Remember, your safety and that of others is the top priority while you wait for assistance from trained professionals.
To learn about electric vehicle safety, including potential fire hazards, check out our article: What happens when an electric car catches fire?
Did you know…
that carrying hand sanitiser in your car can be hazardous? Most hand sanitisers contain a high concentration of alcohol, typically ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, that helps to kill germs effectively. However, it's important to note that alcohol is flammable and can catch fire when exposed to an open flame, spark, or high temperature.
Therefore, it is essential to handle sanitisers with care and keep them away from open flames, heat sources, and sparks. It's also recommended to allow the sanitiser to dry completely on your hands before getting near any potential ignition sources to minimise the risk of fire or burns.
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