If a fire breaks out in the engine compartment while driving, what should you do?

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE requires immediate, controlled action.

Step-by-step response: (1) PULL OFF: Get off the road immediately — don't continue driving except to reach an immediate safe pull-off; (2) SHUT ENGINE OFF: Cut fuel supply by killing the ignition; (3) CALL 911 if the fire is beyond a small extinguisher-manageable size; (4) GET OCCUPANTS AWAY from the vehicle — a burning CMV can explode if the fuel tank is involved; keep passengers and yourself upwind and at least 300 feet away; (5) ATTEMPT EXTINGUISHING only if: you have the right extinguisher (dry chemical Class B:C for engine fires), the fire is small, and you have a clear escape path; (6) DO NOT OPEN THE HOOD FULLY — lifting the hood suddenly introduces oxygen and can cause the fire to flare dramatically; instead, crack the hood slightly (enough to aim the extinguisher nozzle underneath) or discharge through the front grill opening; (7) AIM AT THE BASE of the fire, not the flames; (8) BACK OFF if the fire doesn't respond to the extinguisher — do not stay near a vehicle that may explode.

What you carry: CMVs should carry an ABC or B:C extinguisher rated for vehicle fires; inspect it during pre-trip; know its location; know how to use PASS (Pull-Aim-Squeeze-Sweep).

Never: use water on an electrical or fuel fire; re-enter a burning vehicle for cargo; allow bystanders near a burning CMV with a fuel tank.