If you notice smoke coming from a vehicle's engine compartment during a rescue, what should you do?

In a situation where you notice smoke coming from a vehicle's engine compartment during a rescue, the safest course of action is to leave the hood closed and allow any potential fire to burn. Opening the hood can provide airflow, which might intensify the fire if there is a fuel leak or any kind of flammable substance inside the engine compartment. The closed hood helps to contain the fire and make it easier for emergency services to handle the situation.

Additionally, it’s crucial to prioritize safety for yourself and any bystanders. Evacuating the scene ensures that everyone is at a safe distance in case the fire escalates, which is an inherent risk when dealing with vehicle fires. It is also important to avoid attempting to extinguish the fire unless you are trained and equipped to do so safely, as this could also lead to injury. Allowing the fire to burn while retreating from the scene is better than putting yourself at risk by trying to manage it without proper equipment and training.