How to prevent the risk of car fires, especially on hot days

Hanoi had two consecutive car fires on the same day. Meanwhile, recently, across the country, there have been cases of cars catching fire as soon as they are started, some catching fire while moving on the road, some catching fire as soon as they stop or are parked indoors, or parked in public places... This phenomenon is very diverse and complicated because the vehicles involved in the accident include both old and new cars.

In two car fires at noon on May 17, in Dong Da and Ba Dinh districts (Hanoi), one was determined to have been caused by an electrical short circuit.

Accordingly, the Ministry of Public Security has issued recommendations to people on preventive measures and handling of car and motorbike fires in the context of the continuous hot weather in recent days.

Car fire on Huynh Thuc Khang Street (Hanoi) on the afternoon of May 17, 2023. Photo: Ministry of Public Security

Specifically, to ensure fire prevention and fighting safety, the Ministry of Public Security recommends that vehicle users do not install additional devices or accessories that consume electricity such as protective devices, horns, lights, etc., or if they do, they must ensure safety and avoid electrical overload.

In addition, it is necessary to comply with the prescribed operating, maintenance and repair procedures and only perform them in reputable, quality places; regularly check proactively to promptly detect unusual signs (difficulty starting the engine, having gasoline vapor, making noises, high engine temperature, burning smell). When leaving the vehicle indoors or in a parking lot, turn off the ignition, close the gas valve and keep it away from sources of fire and heat.

On the other hand, vehicle owners should use fuel of the correct type and quality as prescribed; do not buy gasoline or oil at unauthorized sales points; do not leave flammable or combustible substances in the vehicle, under the seat, or in the engine compartment. Owners of motor vehicles with 4 seats or more should equip themselves with appropriate fire extinguishers.

Regarding car fires, according to engineer Le Van Tach, fires often originate from unsafe electrical systems in the car. The cause could be a rat bite, an unsafe additional connection, or a grounding bolt that is not tightened to the right strength. There are hundreds of important tightening points on each car, and sometimes just one of them being improperly tightened can cause very serious damage.

Some experts say one of the reasons for the fires is that many drivers keep the habit of smoking in their cars. When that happens, cigarette butts can fly into flammable parts, increasing the risk of fire and explosion.

Another habit that can increase the risk of fire and explosion is lighters. In addition to lighters, seemingly harmless items such as perfume bottles and air fresheners can also explode if the temperature outside is hot.

During the summer, the need for long trips increases. This means that the car is constantly exposed to the sun and the heat from the road surface, plus the heat generated when operating the car.

After traveling about 100km, the vehicle should rest for about 15-20 minutes to reduce the temperature in the cabin. The vehicle should be parked in the shade. When starting the vehicle, the vehicle owner should carefully check the coolant.

When you discover a car is smoking, do not open the hood because it will add oxygen to the fire and make it bigger if you do not have adequate fire fighting equipment./.