As an expert in emergency response and vehicle safety, I can provide you with a comprehensive guide on what to do if your car catches on fire. Fire emergencies can be life-threatening and require immediate action. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your safety and the safety of others:

**Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation**
The first and most crucial step is to remain calm. Panic can lead to poor decisions that may put you and others at greater risk. Assess the situation quickly to determine the severity of the fire and whether it is safe to take further action.

Step 2: Pull Over Safely
If you notice smoke or flames, do not attempt to reach your destination. Instead, pull over to a safe location as quickly and safely as possible. Avoid stopping in the middle of the road, which could cause an accident.

Step 3: Turn Off the Engine
Once the car is stopped, immediately shut off the engine. This action will cut off the flow of fuel, which can prevent the fire from escalating.

Step 4: Evacuate the Vehicle
Ensure that all passengers exit the vehicle as quickly as possible. Do not attempt to retrieve personal belongings from the car; your safety is the priority.

Step 5: Move to a Safe Distance
After evacuating, move yourself and all passengers to a safe distance away from the vehicle. The recommended distance is at least 150 feet, which provides a buffer in case of an explosion.

Step 6: Call Emergency Services
Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Provide your location and a brief description of the situation.

**Step 7: Use a Fire Extinguisher if Safe to Do So**
If you have a fire extinguisher and it is safe to approach the vehicle, you can attempt to put out the fire. Aim the extinguisher at the base of the flames and use short bursts.

Step 8: Do Not Re-enter the Vehicle
Never re-enter the vehicle under any circumstances. Wait for emergency services to arrive and handle the situation.

Step 9: Alert Others
If possible, use hazard lights or flares to alert other drivers to the danger.

Step 10: Document the Incident
Once the situation is under control and it is safe to do so, document the incident. Take photos of the vehicle and the surrounding area for insurance purposes.

**Step 11: Follow Up with Authorities and Insurance**
After the incident, follow up with the authorities to get a copy of the incident report. Contact your insurance company to report the fire and discuss the next steps.

Remember, the primary goal in any fire emergency is to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Quick action and clear thinking can make a significant difference in the outcome of such a situation.

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Don't try to get to your destination first, just pull over. Shut off the engine. This will stop the flow of fuel, which can prevent a full-blown fire from occurring. Get yourself and all passengers out of the car, and move to a safe place as far away from the car as possible, at least 150 feet away.read more >>