Due to our dry and arid landscape, bushfires are synonymous with the Australian environment, and unfortunately they can be fast, ferocious, and cause widespread devastation. They can also be deadly. The 2009 Black Saturday bushfires in Victoria claimed the lives of 173 people, many of whom were fleeing in vehicles. Whether you reside in a bushfire-prone area or not, it’s a good idea to be educated on what you should do if you find yourself caught in a fire whilst driving.
If you are planning a road trip during summer, always make sure that the destination you are travelling to, and the route you will take, is currently free of any bushfire related incidents. Also avoid driving in extremely hot weather and on fire-ban days. Bushfires can start quickly, and without warning. If you encounter smoke or flames and are not able to turn around and drive to safety, follow the below steps:
Position the car to minimise exposure to radiant heat:
- Stay calm and find an area to park away from dense bush – try to find a clearing.
- If possible, park behind a barrier such as a wall or rocky outcrop.
- The car should ideally face towards the oncoming fire front.
- Park off the roadway and turn hazard lights on. Car crashes are common in bushfires due to poor visibility.
- Wait for help, do not leave the car unless it is safe to do so.
- If possible, use a torch or phone to signal for help.
To increase your chances of survival:
- Stay in the car, and tightly close windows and doors.
- If you have access to water, dampen blankets, sheets, towels, or any clothing you have in your car and cover up.
- Get down below window level – this is your highest priority so you can try to avoid breathing smoke.
- Drink water to prevent dehydration.
As soon as you become aware that the fire front is close by:
- Shut all vents and turn the air conditioning off.
- Turn the engine off.
Try to remain calm, and do not exit the vehicle until the wall of fire has passed.
Do not open the door and get out as the fire is approaching, you will not be able to outrun a fire. It’s likely the car will catch on fire, but it’s not going to explode. What you need to do is wait for the flaming fire front to come and pass.
It is vital to note that all of these are last-resort measures. The best advice is to avoid the situation altogether – avoid driving through bushfire prone areas during extreme heat and get out early if told to evacuate your home in the event of a bush fire in your region.
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