2024 Facts for Drivers PDF

When might a truck's exhaust system create a fire hazard? A truck's exhaust system might create a fire hazard if there are leaks, or if the piping is routed too close to fuel lines, wiring or combustible material such as wood. What are the basic principles of extinguishing fires? Fires are...

When might a truck's exhaust system create a fire hazard? A truck's exhaust system might create a fire hazard if there are leaks, or if the piping is routed too close to fuel lines, wiring or combustible material such as wood. What are the basic principles of extinguishing fires? Fires are extinguished in one of two ways: 1. By cooling the burning material below tts ignition temperature. 2. By smothering the burning material by cutting off the flow of oxygen to the fire and interrupting the ongoing chemical reaction. Fire extinguishers used on trucks are used to smother small fires. Can any extinguisher be used on any burning material? No. Basic classes of fires have been established. The classes for which a particular extinguisher 1s suitable are indicated by a combination of letters and symbols as follows: 1. Class A - Fires in ordinary combustibles (such as wood, cloth, paper, etc.) 2. Class B - Fires in flammable liquids 3. Class C - Fires in energized electrical equipment 4. Class D - Fires in combustible metals such as magnesium and aluminum What can you do if the material in your truck’s fire extinguish- er is exhausted? ‘Throwing sand or dirt on the fire may help to smother and control it. If you are driving a combination unit and fire occurs, what additional step(s) can be taken to minimize the severity of the situation? If it can be done safely, then a driver of a combination vehicle should disconnect the power unit, lower the landing gear of the semi-trailer, and drive the power unit clear of the fire. This action removes the power unit and its fuel supply from the danger zone. What is the most effective way to use a portable fire extin- guisher? To extinguish a fire using a portable fire extinguisher, aim the extinguishing agent at the base of the flames and the near edge of 165