Final answer:
In case of brake failure, you should shift into a lower gear for engine braking and use the emergency brake carefully to slow down your vehicle, then steer to safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
When faced with brake failure, the immediate steps you take are crucial to ensure safety. The first thing you should do is shift into a lower gear to allow engine braking to slow down the vehicle. Simultaneously, you can use the emergency brake, also known as the parking brake, to help reduce speed.
However, it is essential to apply the emergency brake gradually to avoid locking up the wheels which can lead to a loss of control. Make sure to pull the emergency brake lever slowly or, if it's a foot pedal system, press it down firmly yet progressively. As you are doing this, try to safely steer your vehicle to the side of the road away from traffic. Once you have stopped, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and seek professional help.