Ask a Trooper

Sgt. Jesse Grabow of the Minnesota State Patrol

Question: I know it was just National Fire Prevention Week. I’ve seen a few vehicle fires during my travels. Can you talk about what people can or should do in those situations?
Answer: If you notice smoke rising from beneath the hood of your vehicle, pull off the road, turn off the ignition, and exit the vehicle immediately. Do not use water to put out the fire—this will actually spread the blaze.
In 2023, Minnesota State Troopers responded to 848 vehicle fires around Minnesota. In addition, during that year Troopers also responded to 472 grass and structure fires, many of which were ignited after the vehicle had caught on fire.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) states what to do if your vehicle is on fire:
• Pull over as quickly as it is safe to do so, be sure to use your signal as you make your way to a safe location off the road such as the breakdown lane or rest stop.
• Once you have stopped, TURN OFF the engine.
• GET everyone out of the car. Never return to a burning car for anything.
• MOVE everyone at least 100 feet from the burning car and well away from traffic.
• CALL 9-1-1.

A portion of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205. (You can follow him on Twitter @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).