Emergencies do happen. Whether we ride or drive, it is of paramount importance that we become proactive and respond to driving emergencies if and when they arise. If a driver runs off the pavement, what is the first thing to do? What is the safest action to take? How should he react?

According to Kurt Harding, an experienced St Andrew-based auto mechanic, the driver should:

1. Slow down

2. Do not try to turn back quickly

3. When in control, turn back on slowly.

As with anything else, you will get no more out of your motor vehicle and your driving than you are willing to put in. Concentration is an important element in the driving process and the handling of any emergency which may occur. The driver's seat is no haven for day dreaming, window shopping, mental napping or distractions and distracting conversations. Drivers must be alert and aware to deal with any emergency that may confront them. Kurt Harding offers some pointers as to how to deal with emergencies.

If a tyre blows out:

1. Concentrate on the steering

2. Slow down gradually

3. Brake softly

4. Pull completely off the road

If the engine is flooded:

1. Do not pump gas pedal

2. Press the gas pedal to the floor

3. Run the starter steadily

4. Let up on the pedal when the engine starts.

IF THE BRAKES FAIL:

1. It is wise to use the parking brake

2. Carefully shift to a lower gear.

3. Rub the tyres on the kerb

4. Look for a safer area to come to a halt.

IF THE ACCELERATOR IS JAMMED:

1. Skilfully concentrate on steering

2. Press the pedal hard with your foot.

3. Shift to the neutral position

4. Turn off the ignition.

5. Make use of the brakes.

IF THERE IS A FIRE:

Try to remain as calm as possible. Do not waste time, get passengers out and away from the motor vehicle at once. If there is no fire extinguisher, try to smother burning wires with any heavy cloth, dirt or sand. Do not use water to put out an electrical fire. If the fire is beyond control, get away from the vehicle.

1. Be sure to apply mud, some dirt or sand

2. Check for water

3. Loosen dirt with tyre tool.

IF A MOTOR VEHICLE IS APPROACHING IN YOUR LANE:

1. Quickly sound the horn (always ensure your horn is working).

2. Brake skilfully and sharply

3. Steer in the direction for the shoulder or the ditch.

IF driving through water:

1. It is best to test the brakes lightly after driving through the water.

2. Be cognisant of the fact that brakes may pull to one side or may not hold at all.

3. You can dry the brakes by driving slowly in low gear and applying the brakes.

Brake Failure:

If the driver's brake suddenly give out, it is best to shift to a lower gear and pump the brake pedal fast and hard several times. This may build up enough brake pressure to stop the car. If that method does not work, the driver could use the parking brake.

Remember to hold the brake release so you can let up if the rear wheels lock and you begin to skid. Now, with the car in low gear, the driver should begin looking for a place to stop.