Islander71
Member
- Messages
- 204
- Location
- West Scotland
Many years ago i was welding underneath a Vauxhall Chevette I had, it had the back end propped up on a couple of sections of trees about 3 ft high. Noticed a small flame so got out from under it to see flames inside. Ran for the fire extinguisher which was less than 10yds away. Enroute there was a bang, turned to see flames maybe 8ft or so long licking the roof of the workshop. I assumed the petrol tank had gone. Could only see what the flames illuminated as the entire large workshop was filled with dense black smoke. Held my breathe and fired the big powder extinguisher at the source of the flames which instantly knocked them out., and found the door and got out to be able to breathe again. Thick black smoke poured out the door like liquid. Once it had cleared investigated the damage. The bang had been the rear window shattering, and the black smoke had come from the interior side and roof lining which was all gone remarkably quickly. A bit scary how quick you'd need to get out of a car that caught fire.
Many lessons learnt.
I only weld cars outside now and have a bucket of water with a small container to throw the water and a soaking wet rag, plus an extinguisher as a last resort. And check what is inflammable near the welding. Must try the air gun trick.
Many lessons learnt.
I only weld cars outside now and have a bucket of water with a small container to throw the water and a soaking wet rag, plus an extinguisher as a last resort. And check what is inflammable near the welding. Must try the air gun trick.
