Help! My cars on fire!

That’s not a cry you hope to ever hear, and luckily modern vehicles are designed to minimise the chances of your car going up in flames. But would, and should, you do in a worst case scenario?

Here are a few tips to help you prevent and further minimise the chances of watching your car unexpectedly going up in flames:

• Check all fuel lines often for cracks, wear and tear and basically any deterioration. Old or worn fuel lines and hoses must be replaced with new ones, especially on older vehicles.

• Give your engine a good clean whenever you wash your car. Oil build ups, drips and smears are al fire hazards waiting for a chance to ignite.

• Always use recommended fuses.

• Don’t leave loose wires exposed.

If your vehicle does, for whatever reason, catch fire on the motorway one day, what should you do? Here are a few sensible pointers:

• Don’t panic; pull off to the side of the road as soon as possible, but just look out for other road users before you begin to swerve erratically if you do panic.

• Get out of the vehicle immediately, and assist any passengers who need help getting out of the car.

• Get as far away from the vehicle as possible and call for help as soon as you are a safe distance away.

• Due to the risk of explosion and inhalation of toxic fumes, never approach a vehicle which is on fire, attempt to open the hood or put out a fire yourself.

Most motor insurance providers include fire damage in their comprehensive cover offers, but read the small print and make sure you are covered for accidental fires caused by engine malfunctions. Contact you car insurance providers to find out just what kind of cover you have.     

Direct Line offers great motor insurance cover at great prices, so get a quote today.