Common Causes of Bus Fires

Buses present a unique combination of heavy work cycles and the use of various aftermarket electrical accessories that place them at risk for fires. An important step in preventing future incidents is in understanding what has caused fires in the past. The causes of bus fires generally fall into three distinct categories: electrical, friction at the wheel level, and engine component failures. Many of these incidents could have been prevented with an improved maintenance and inspection program. In this paper we will discuss the three common causes of bus fires described above in detail and provide suggestions for improved maintenance and inspection procedures that can reduce the risk of fire.