Vehicle fire safety tips from the U.S. Fire Administration after incident in Richmond

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Tips from the U.S. Fire Administration on what to do if a vehicle catches fire, shared after an incident in Richmond on Saturday night.

On Saturday, Feb. 14, at 6:14 p.m., a vehicle caught on fire on the 500 block of Rossmore Road in Richmond. Since vehicle fires can start for multiple reasons, the U.S. Fire Administration has tips on what to do if this happens to you.

Burning vehicles can trap people quickly and occur from mechanical and electrical issue and crashes.

What to do if your vehicle catches on fire:

• Pull over as soon as you're able to do safely.
• Once you have stopped the vehicle, turn the engine off.
• Get everyone out and never return to a burning vehicle. Do not try to fight the fire yourself.
• If you think the fire is under the hood or trunk, do not open it. This may make the fire grow.
• Make sure everyone is at least 100 feet away from the burning vehicle and away from traffic.
• Call 911.

In order to prevent a vehicle fire:

• Have your vehicle regualrly serviced by a trained mechanic.
• Keep any gas cans or propane tanks away from passengers, as well as tightly sealed and on flat surface sitting upright.
• Keep windows open to stop the fumes from building up inside the vehicle if you have to put gas cans or propane tanks inside.
• Drive safely ro avoid any accidents.

For more inofrmation, visit the U.S. Fire Administration website here.