fire safety
First Aid Corner

Fire Safety and Emergency Response: Your Role as a First Responder

Autonews AA Kenya July 8, 2026

Powered by STOP THE BLEED® Kenya initiative


A road crash involving fire is a critical emergency. When seconds count, your actions can prevent further tragedy. This month, we focus on the essential steps for maintaining scene safety and ensuring you know how to call for professional help.


🚩 Scene Safety: Your First Priority
If you encounter a vehicle crash where fire or smoke is present, your safety comes first. Do not become a second victim.
● Assess and Distance: If a vehicle is smoking or on fire, park your car at a safe distance and alert others to stay back.
● Equip Your Vehicle: Carrying a functional, serviced fire extinguisher in your car is essential. It is one of the most effective tools for preventing a small engine fire from becoming a catastrophe.
● Stay Clear: If the fire is already large or fuel is leaking, do not attempt to intervene. Keep yourself and bystanders away from the area until professional firefighters arrive.
● Fuel Awareness: Be vigilant. Fuel leaks can occur in any crash. Avoid using matches, lighters, or any potential ignition sources near the scene.


📞 Know Your Emergency Numbers
If you witness a crash or fire, you need to alert emergency services immediately. In Kenya, you can dial any of the following toll-free numbers to reach the National Police Service:


🚨 999 | 112 | 911
When you call:

  1. Stay calm.
  2. Give the exact location (use landmarks or road signs).
  3. Describe the situation (e.g., “There is a vehicle fire with potential injuries”).
  4. Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to.
    🎓 Take Action: Get Trained

  5. Reading about emergency response is important, but it is no substitute for practical, hands-on training. In a high-pressure situation, muscle memory and confidence gained through certified training are what save lives.
    We strongly encourage every driver and road user to enroll in a recognized First Aid and Fire Safety course. This training will teach you how to properly handle fire extinguishers and manage trauma scenes effectively.
    ● For Roadside Emergencies: Call AA Kenya Roadside Assistance at 0709 933 000 or 0709 933 999.
    ● For First Aid Training &
    ● Practical Tips: Call The Quick Fix Learning Hub at 0707 079 192.

Remember: Professional medical help is the ultimate goal. By securing the scene and alerting authorities quickly using the numbers above, you provide the critical link that allows paramedics to do their jobs effectively.