Summary: Approaching a vehicle fire — especially on the highway — means more than just “putting the wet stuff on the red stuff.” New firefighters need to think about wind, slope, fuel types, magnesium parts, toxic smoke, and what’s in the trunk. Use a 45-degree approach, mask up, cool bumpers and tires, and watch your footing. Foam can help if you’ve got it, but water works — if you’re smart about how you apply it.

Leave a Comment

One Car Fire Tip for a Probie? Start With the Right Questions

Here are Tips Offered by Real Firefighters We Talked To

Car fires are deceptively simple. You roll up, flames are visible, the car’s likely a total loss. But it’s not about the car — it’s about the unknowns, the environment, and the variables that can catch a probie (or anyone) off guard. (JOIN THE CONVERSATION HERE)

Always Mask Up — Even Outside the Car

Toxic smoke from vehicle interiors, especially newer plastics and composites, is no joke. Even if you’re outside, if you’re near the smoke path, wear your SCBA. Bystanders may underestimate it — don’t be that firefighter who does too.

Approach from the Corners — Never Head-On

This one came up over and over from seasoned firefighters. Always approach at a 45-degree angle. Front and rear bumpers can have gas-charged struts that turn into projectiles under heat. Hood struts can launch like spears. And EVs? Even more unpredictable.

Watch the Slope and Wind

Position yourself uphill and upwind whenever possible. Car fires can release flowing fuel, and you don’t want to be standing downhill in a puddle of flaming diesel. Wind can blow smoke, debris, or even flame your way. Think before you sprint in.

Use Foam? It Depends.

If you’ve got it — and especially if you’re dealing with leaking fuel — foam helps. A Class B foam or AFFF can blanket fuel surfaces and prevent re-ignition. But water still works for knockdown. The key? Application. Straight stream to knock, fog to cool and clean up.

Nozzle Tips Matter

Start low, sweep under the vehicle, and cool tires and bumpers before moving in. Don't waste water shooting high flames that aren’t hitting fuel or material. A fog pattern helps with cooling and visibility once you move in close.

Check the Trunk — and the Scene

Multiple firefighters stressed this: Don’t assume the car is empty. Always confirm no one’s in the trunk or rear seat. Also, don’t overlook the surroundings. If the fire’s in a wooded area, watch for spread. Check for leaking fuel, propane tanks, or aftermarket modifications.

Common Rookie Mistakes

• Rushing in before cooling hazards

• Not wearing full PPE and SCBA

• Spraying from too far away to be effective

• Forgetting to chock the wheels

• Ignoring wind or slope positioning

• Standing in line with potential projectiles

Final Advice: You’re Not Saving the Car

The vehicle was likely a total loss before your tones even dropped. That doesn’t mean you phone it in — it means you work smarter. Stay safe, stay masked, and pay attention to the details. Vehicle fires are full of surprises — make sure you're not one of them. JOIN THE CONVERSATION HERE