Each month we have been talking about fire safety. This month features vehicle fire safety. The U.S. Fire Administration and National Fire Protection Association share that vehicle fires attributed to nearly one out of seven fires; one in 10.5 fire deaths; an estimated 300 civilian deaths and 1,250 injuries annually; and four percent of fire-related firefighter injuries each year. Learn more here.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cars can catch fire for many reasons, with mechanical or electrical issues being the most common cause. A car can also catch fire as the result of a bad crash, although most crashes do not result in a fire. If you see smoke or flames, or smell burning rubber or plastic, take action. Here are steps you should follow if your car catches on fire:

• Pull over as quickly as you can when it is safe.
• Once you have stopped, turn off the engine.
• Get everyone out of the car. Never return to a burning car. Do not try to fight the fire yourself.
• If you think there is a fire under the hood or trunk, do not open it. This could cause the fire to grow.
• Move everyone at least 100 feet from the burning car and well away from traffic.
• Call 911.

Get more fire safety tips from the U.S. Fire Administration at www.usfa.fema.gov.