As a former professional firefighter I like to believe I know everything anyone could know about fire, but of course that’s absolutely insane. However, I may know more than some people. If someone wants to contradict me because they actually know what they are talking about please do, and the rest of you should pay attention to what they say.
I have not seen the video being referenced and am not commenting on it.
If you have your wits about you, smell what is coming from under the hood. Acrid, plastic, nasty means fire. Wet means steam, like maybe a blown hose. Either can be extremely dangerous. If it’s steam it’s going to self correct after a while. If it’s smoke things could get better or get worse. If you are considering opening the hood, feel it first WITH YOUR GLOVED HAND! You do keep leather gloves at reach at all times, right? If it’s very hot at all, start unloading your vehicle.
If your think you want to open your hood keep in mind you will be reaching in for the latch WITH YOUR GLOVED HAND into an area you cannot see. As soon as you open the hood you will direct all the heat and smoke or steam at your face. Stop to consider if this is really a good idea. You are possibly facing a choice between losing your vehicle or permanently maiming or even killing yourself. I know which I’d choose.
Also please keep in mind that modern bumpers have pressurized pieces that explode when heated and will be hurling a large object away from the vehicle with considerable force. And there’s also all the toxins to breathe in while all this is going on.
Personally, I keep a jump bag behind the seat with gear I need to survive. I also keep two fire extinguishers in the cab. I’m not saying I wouldn’t try to put out a fire, I’m just saying I wouldn’t do so if I felt I was risking my safety.