Essential Steps to Survive a Car Fire on Uganda’s Roads

Vehicle fires have become a growing threat on Uganda’s roads, with incidents like the Trinity Bus Services blaze on the Mpigi-Kampala highway and a Devine Coaches bus on the Kampala-Moyo route highlighting the dangers. In 2024, around 300 to 380 of Uganda’s 1,280 fire cases involved vehicles, many destroyed in under five minutes.

Early warnings often include faint burning odors, smoke from the bonnet, or dashboard lights that drivers ignore. Eyewitnesses from the Trinity bus fire noted smoke visible before it stopped, but high speed delayed response until flames overtook the engine and spread to seats and luggage.

Common Causes

Mechanics like Michael Kalyango in Bweyogerere point to overheating engines from low coolant, fuel leaks from damaged lines, electrical shorts, and oil drips onto hot parts. Carrying flammable materials like petrol or gas cylinders worsens the risk.

Immediate Actions

Road safety expert Simon Lukut stresses: stop immediately upon smelling smoke or seeing it, turn off the engine to halt fuel and power, and evacuate everyone quickly—leaving belongings behind. Use a fire extinguisher only on small base flames if safe; never open the bonnet, as oxygen fuels the blaze. Call emergency services right away.

Prevention Tips

Regular maintenance of cooling systems, fuel lines, and wiring is key. Check coolant before long trips, watch for leaks or odd smells, and ensure public vehicles have extinguishers and clear exits. Inspect modified electrics regularly.

Must-Have Emergency Items

• Fire extinguisher: Charged, accessible, regularly serviced.
• Reflective triangle: To warn other drivers.
• Emergency hammer: For breaking windows.
• First aid kit: For burns and injuries.
• Charged phone: With emergency contacts saved.
• Clear emergency exits: Especially on buses.

Preparedness saves lives, as insured drivers should also contact providers after safety is secured.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)