Wildfire on the road? Firefighter explains safest actions

When wildfire smoke blankets the road, instinct can lead to dangerous decisions. Lluís Mendo, an official with Bombers de la Generalitat, a regional fire department, explained the common mistakes drivers make and the actions that increase survival chances.

"Firefighters always prioritize confining the population or directing evacuations, so, in principle, no driver should end up trapped by a wildfire," Mendo said. However, he acknowledged that unexpected situations can arise. In such cases, correct actions can mean the difference between escaping unharmed and a tragedy.

Mendo strongly advises against trying to drive through smoke or flames. He also warned against sudden braking, U-turns, or any maneuver that could impede emergency vehicles. The primary danger isn't just the flames but how quickly the situation can change, with smoke reducing visibility to zero in seconds and wind shifts altering the fire's path.

If a safe escape route exists, the recommendation is to leave the area immediately, moving away from the fire and following emergency service directions. Drivers should also call 112 to report their location and situation if possible. Mendo emphasized avoiding roads surrounded by vegetation or thick smoke. If visibility drops significantly or the road is blocked, stopping in a safe place is preferable to advancing toward the fire.

When escape is impossible, Mendo stated that the vehicle itself is the safest refuge. This advice comes from Clarín in Argentina.