(Creston, Iowa)  – A car that became stuck on a mud road east of Creston late this (Monday) morning, caught fire and was destroyed. Officials with the Creston Fire Department say crews responded to the fire at 1910 180th Street, a little after 11-a.m.

In a social media post, the CFD says when the first firefighters arrived at the scene, they found the vehicle fully engulfed in flames and requested additional resources. The Toyota Camry had become stuck in the mud on Jaguar Avenue, which is a Level B road that had become impassable due to overnight rain. Officials say the fire was likely caused by the mechanical malfunction that occurred while attempting to free the vehicle from the mud.

CFD Facebook photo

The Creston Fire Department offers these tips on “What to Do If Your Car Is Stuck“:

Stop Immediately: If you feel the wheels spinning, stop trying to accelerate.

Assess the Situation: Get out of the vehicle to check the extent of the problem and determine your vehicle’s drive type (front-wheel or rear-wheel drive).

Use Traction Aids: Place objects like sticks, sand, or mats under the tires to gain traction.

Gentle Rocking: Gently switch between drive and reverse to rock the vehicle back and forth, applying minimal gas to avoid further sinking.

Stay Away: If a fire does start, get out of the vehicle, move at least 100 feet away, and call 9-1-1. Do not go back for your belongings.