If hazmat fire occurs while driving, what should you do?

• A. Not attempt to control the fire
• B. Stop and fight the fire from your vehicle
• C. Continue driving to the nearest safe area
• D. Call emergency line and continue driving

Answer: (A)

In a hazmat fire, safety comes first and you should not try to fight the fire yourself. Hazmat fires can release toxic fumes and may ignite or explode, and a driver without specialized training or equipment is at serious risk. The best course is to stop as safely as possible, evacuate to a safe distance upwind, and call emergency services to report the incident and provide details about the cargo and location. Stay away from any smoke or vapors and don’t reopen the cargo door or re-enter the vehicle until responders declare it safe. Continuing to drive or attempting to extinguish the fire from the cab would put you and others in greater danger.