[size=8pt]Car fires[/size]
The main cause of vehicle fire is faulty wiring. In turn this can easily come about because of quack electricians, neglect or sloppy do-it-yourself electrical repairs. It only takes a few minutes for a fire to develop into an inferno.

If you suspect a fire on the move you need to take prompt action.

 If the fire is inside the car with smoke coming from behind the dashboard:
• Stop immediately turn off the ignition
• Get out of the car as quickly as possible
There is a real danger that the car will quickly fill with highly toxic smoke and fumes.

 If the fire is under the bonnet:
• Choose a safe place to stop, away from places where the fire could spread if the car burns out.
• Switch off the engine and get out of the car and DO NOT OPEN THE BONNET. Opening the bonnet allows air to get to the fire and might
make it flare up.
• If you have a fire extinguisher, loosen the bonnet just enough to aim it underneath. If you can't do this, stand back and call for
assistance.

General[/b]
Earth or sand is useful for putting out fires in the absence of an extinguisher. A car rug or mat might be useful for smothering a fire. Don't use water on petrol fires; you may wash the burning petrol somewhere where it will cause more problems.
Electrical fires can be stopped by disconnecting the battery or the appropriate wire. However, you should not attempt to do this unless you know what you are doing and can easily access the battery (or wire) without the risk of burns.

Safety first!!![b]
Always, always, always, get your passengers out of the car before doing anything else if you suspect fire. As explained above, toxic fumes can fill the car very quickly. Make sure that passengers (especially children) and pets are well out of harm's way, especially on motorways and other fast roads. Other drivers will be distracted and 'secondary' accidents can easily happen.

Stay calm - stay safe!

Nice and informative post. I will feature this post on my blog tonight.