Preventing Vehicle Fires

Fire prevention revolves around keeping three basic elements from coming together:

• Fuel – A substance that will burn.
• Air – Oxygen is needed for combustion to occur.
• Heat – A certain temperature must be reached for a fire to spark.

Here are four basic steps to help avoid fires:

1. Keep your cab and engine clean.

• Throw out trash and dispose of greasy gloves and oily rags.
• Don’t leave lighters or matchbooks lying around.
• Check batteries, electrical and exhaust systems during inspections.

2. Cargo

• Watch for smoke in or coming out of the trailer.
• Know your load so you can describe it to first responders.
• Don’t smoke when handling freight, especially if handling hazmat.

3. Tires/Brakes

• Check tires and brakes before, during and after each trip.
• Underinflated tires can overheat.
• Be sure parking brakes are released before moving, brake evenly, and don’t ride the brakes.

4. Fire Extinguishers

• Make sure it is charged regularly and inspected by a professional.
• Know how to use it. Pull the pin, stand back, aim at the base, squeeze and use a sweeping motion.