Flammable Liquids

Question 1

Where are Additives found?

Answer 1

Bulk petroleum storage facilities, stored in smaller tanks

pg.2

“Products found at bulk petroleum storage facilities that are stored in smaller tanks and are added to gasoline or diesel fuel in very small quantities. Additives are typically similar to diesel fuel in combustibility, but may present greater health hazards.”

Question 2

Additives:

Answer 2

products that are added to gasoline or diesel fuel in small amounts

pg.2

“Products found at bulk petroleum storage facilities that are stored in smaller tanks and are added to gasoline or diesel fuel in very small quantities. Additives are typically similar to diesel fuel in combustibility, but may present greater health hazards.”

Question 3

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) and Alcohol Resistant Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AR-AFFF):

Answer 3

most commonly used foams.

Synthetic foam w/ alcohol resistant properties

AFFF ranges from 1 to 6 percent.

pg.2

“Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) and Alcohol Resistant Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AR-AFFF): AFFF and AR-AFFF are the most commonly used foams available today, with the AR version making it the most versatile foam as well. AFFF is synthetic foam with the basic elements being fluorochemical surfactants, hydrocarbon surfactants, and solvents. Just as in AR- FFFP, the addition of a polymer gives AR-AFFF its alcohol resistant properties. These versatile foams have excellent knockdown ability, good heat resistance, good fuel tolerance, good vapor suppression and in the AR version, excellent alcohol tolerance. AFFF is available in a wide range of percentages from 1% to 6%.”

Question 4

An ARFF unit has a minimum of how many gallons of foam concentrate?

Answer 4

100 gallons

pg.2

“ARFF Unit: This is a self-contained unit specifically designed to have a pump-and-roll capability and a minimum of 100 gallons of foam concentrate; may have duel agent application ability and duel agent application. The minimum ARFF vehicle requirements are established by Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 139 – Certification of Airports, NFPA 414: Standard for Aircraft Rescue and Fire-fighting Vehicles, and NFPA 1901: Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus.”

Question 5

an AR Foam unit is designed to respond to what type of incidents?

Answer 5

flammable liquids

pg.2

“AR Foam Unit: A self-contained fire engine that has been specifically designed to respond to flammable liquids incidents within the NOVA region. Units carry AR-AFFF foam and may have pump-and-roll capability.”

Question 6

What is an Auto-Ignition Temperature?

Answer 6

lowest temp where a substance ignites without other ignition source

pg.2

“The lowest temperature where a substance will auto-ignite and combust without any other sources of ignition.”

Question 7

Petroleum products handled by pipelines and in bulk storage are measured by what?

Answer 7

Barrels

pg.2

“Barrel: Petroleum products handled by pipelines and in bulk storage are measured in barrels. A barrel (abbreviated bbl) contains 42 U.S. gallons.”

Question 8

A Barrel contains how many gallons?

Answer 8

42

pg.2

“Barrel: Petroleum products handled by pipelines and in bulk storage are measured in barrels. A barrel (abbreviated bbl) contains 42 U.S. gallons.”

Question 9

Combustible liquids have a flash point above ______ degrees Fahrenheit?

Answer 9

100

pg.2

“Combustible Liquid: Liquid having a flash point above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.78 Celsius) and below 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93.33 Celsius)”

Question 10

Combustible Liquids have a flash point below _____ degrees Fahrenheit?

Answer 10

200

pg.2

“Combustible Liquid: Liquid having a flash point above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.78 Celsius) and below 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93.33 Celsius)”

Question 11

Fixed Facility Containment:

Primary containment:

Answer 11

Includes tanks and piping

product is contained under normal circumstances

pg.2

“Primary containment: Includes tanks and piping where product is contained under normal circumstances.”

Question 12

Fixed Facility Containment:

Secondary containment:

Answer 12

Diked area around tanks where product will be contained in the initial stages of an incident.

includes controlled drainage areas at loading racks and other areas where spills are likely

pg.2

“Secondary containment: Diked area around tanks where product will be contained in the initial stages of an incident. Secondary containment also includes controlled drainage areas at loading racks and other areas where spills are likely to occur. Product may be diverted to secondary containment from other areas, or may be diverted from secondary containment to remote impounding areas.”

Question 13

Fixed Facility Containment:

Tertiary containment:

Answer 13

pg.3

“Tertiary containment: Additional area where product can be contained in the event of a catastrophic incident. Product may also be diverted to this area for remote impounding.”

Question 14

Portable Protection:

Answer 14

pg.3

“Portable Protection: Foam delivery system that can be carried or wheeled.”

Question 15

Semi-Fixed Foam System:

Answer 15

similar to a dry standpipe

piping and foam discharge outlets to protect hazard areas but have no supply of foam or water

requires action by FD

pg.3

“Semi-Fixed Foam System: A foam delivery system that is similar in concept to a dry standpipe. This system consists of piping and foam discharge outlets that are installed to protect hazard areas but have no supply of foam or water connected to them. These systems require action by the fire department.”

Question 16

Topside Foam System:

Answer 16

foam solution is combined with air to produce finished foam.

piping designed to deliver finished foam from above the surface of the contents of the tank.

pg.3

“Topside Foam System: A system of fixed foam chambers (a device where foam solution is combined with air to produce finished foam) and piping designed to deliver finished foam from above the surface of the contents of the tank. This may be a fixed or semi- fixed system.”

Question 17

Subsurface Foam System:

Answer 17

foam solution is injected at the bottom of the tank and rises to the surface of the product.

pg.3

“A system in which foam solution is injected at the bottom of the tank and rises to the surface of the product. This may be a fixed or semi-fixed system.”

Question 18

Rim Protection:

Answer 18

pg.3

“Rim Protection: A system used on some floating roof tanks where protection is provided to the rim of the roof only by use of a foam dam.”

Question 19

Flammable liquids have a flash point below how many degrees?

Answer 19

100

pg.3

“Flammable Liquid: Any liquid having a flash point below 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.78 degrees Celsius) and having a vapor pressure not exceeding 40 psi absolute.”

Question 20

The vapor pressure on a flammable liquid does not exceed what?

Answer 20

40 psi absolute

pg.3

“Flammable Liquid: Any liquid having a flash point below 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.78 degrees Celsius) and having a vapor pressure not exceeding 40 psi absolute.”

Question 21

Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV):

Answer 21

pg.3

“An alternative fuel vehicle with an internal combustion engine designed to run on more than one fuel, usually gasoline blended with either ethanol or methanol fuel.”

Question 22

Fluoro-Protein Foam (FPF) is available in what versions?

Answer 22

3% and 6%

pg.3

“Fluoro-Protein Foam (FPF): Fluoroprotein foam is much like protein foam, but with a fluorocarbon surfactant added to the ingredients. This foam provides good knockdown ability, excellent heat resistance, excellent fuel tolerance, excellent vapor suppression, and no alcohol tolerance. FPF is available in 3% and 6% versions.”

Question 23

Foam Application Methods (Fixed Facility):

Type II:

Answer 23

pg.3

“Fixed foam outlet, either subsurface or topside, designed to deliver finished foam to surface of burning liquid with restricted agitation.”

Question 24

Foam Application Methods (Fixed Facility):

Type I:

Answer 24

pg.3

“Obsolete method no longer used in the NOVA region. This type of application was intended to deliver finished foam to burning surface gently and with minimal agitation”

Question 25

Foam Application Methods (Fixed Facility):

Type III:

Answer 25

pg.4

“Type III: Use of master streams and hand line nozzles to deliver finished foam to the burning surface in a manner resulting in some agitation of the surface.”

Question 26

What type of foam appliction is obsolete?

Answer 26

Type I

pg.3

“Type I: Obsolete method no longer used in the NOVA region. This type of application was intended to deliver finished foam to burning surface gently and with minimal agitation.”

Question 27

What type of foam application uses master streams and hand line nozzles to deliver finished foam to the burning surface, resulting in some agitation to the surface?

Answer 27

Type III

pg.4

“Type III: Use of master streams and hand line nozzles to deliver finished foam to the burning surface in a manner resulting in some agitation of the surface.”

Question 28

Foam Task Force compliment:

Answer 28

2 AR foam units

2 engines

1 pump and roll unit

1 BC

1 hazardous materials assest

pg.4

“Foam Task Force: Response consisting of two AR foam units, one pump-and-roll unit, two engines, one battalion chief, and one hazardous materials asset (if not already dispatched).”

Question 29

Where is Hydrocarbon found?

What are typical Hyrdocarbon fuels?

Answer 29

in petroleum products

gasoline and diesel fuels

pg.4

“Hydrocarbon: Organic compound found in petroleum products, containing primarily hydrogen and carbon. Most hydrocarbons are refined from crude oil or have been extracted from vegetable fiber. Typical hydrocarbon fuels include gasoline and diesel fuel.”

Question 30

Hydrophilic:

Answer 30

pg.4

“A substance having a strong affinity for water.”

Question 31

Loading Rack (Fixed Facility):

Answer 31

pg.4

“Area where tank vehicles are loaded with product for delivery outside the facility.”

Question 32

Non-Intervention Mode:

Answer 32

pg.4

“Taking no immediate action other than isolating the area until the risk of intervention is reduced to an acceptable level, as operations may transition between offensive and defensive strategies. This operating mode may be used while assembling resources to commence an offensive attack.”

Question 33

Petroleum Distillate:

Answer 33

pg.4

“Petroleum Distillate: Combustible liquids, including diesel fuel, heating oil, and jet fuel.”

Question 34

Northern VA is served by what 2 petroleum pipeline companies?

Answer 34

Colonial Pipeline and Plantation Pipeline.

pg.4

“Pipeline: DOT-regulated carrier of product. The Northern Virginia region is served by two petroleum pipeline companies, Colonial Pipeline and Plantation Pipeline. These pipelines are underground for most of their route.”

Question 35

Pipeline Manifold (Fixed Facility):

Answer 35

pg.4

“Pipeline Manifold (Fixed Facility): Piping that incorporates control valves to deliver product from the pipeline to storage tanks.”

Question 36

Polar Solvent:

Answer 36

pg.5

“Polar Solvent: Flammable liquids that mix readily with water. Examples include alcohols, ketones, and lacquers.”

Question 37

Product:

Answer 37

pg.5

“Generic term for petroleum fuels.”

Question 38

Product Pumps (Fixed Facility):

Answer 38

pg.5

“Pumps, usually located within secondary containment, which deliver product.”

Question 39

Where are Pump-and-roll units usually found?

Answer 39

airports

pg.5

“Pump-and-roll Unit: A self-contained unit that is specifically designed to respond to flammable liquid incidents with in the NOVA region. Units may carry AFFF or AR-AFFF foam. These units are typically found at airports.”

Question 40

Pump-and-roll Units are designed to respond to what type of incidents with in the NOVA region.

Answer 40

flammable liquid incidents

pg.5

“Pump-and-roll Unit: A self-contained unit that is specifically designed to respond to flammable liquid incidents with in the NOVA region. Units may carry AFFF or AR-AFFF foam. These units are typically found at airports.”

Question 41

Reformulated Gasoline (RFG):

Answer 41

Gasoline in which the composition has been changed to reduce automotive emissions.

pg.5

“Reformulated Gasoline (RFG): Gasoline in which the composition has been changed to reduce automotive emissions. RFG has lower levels of volatile compounds and benzene and contains oxygenates such as ether or ethanol. RFG with greater than 10% oxygenate additives reacts more like a polar solvent and should be treated as such.”

Question 42

Passenger vehicles with leaking tanks are considered to be what type of a spill?

Answer 42

Small spill

pg.5

“Small Spill: A spill occurring from a container or package approximately 55 gallons or less, a small cylinder, or a small leak from a large container with a minimum flow. Passenger vehicles with leaking tanks are considered small spill responses.”

Question 43

A small spill is how many gallons or less?

Answer 43

55

pg.5

“Small Spill: A spill occurring from a container or package approximately 55 gallons or less, a small cylinder, or a small leak from a large container with a minimum flow. Passenger vehicles with leaking tanks are considered small spill responses.”

Question 44

A large spill is how many gallons or more?

Answer 44

exceeding 55 gallons or multiple spills from multiple small packages or containers.

pg.5

“Large Spill: A large spill exceeding 55 gallons or multiple spills from multiple small packages or containers. Large spill responses include any incident at or involving pipelines, horizontal tanks, tank farms, or flammable liquid tanker trucks or rail cars.”

Question 45

Tank Construction Features (Fixed Facility):
Cathodic Protection:

Answer 45

A system of corrosion protection that uses a small electrical

current.

pg.5

Question 46

Tank Construction Features (Fixed Facility):

Cone Roof:

Answer 46

Cone Roof: A large tank with a fixed steel roof and an exposed product surface within the tank.

pg.5

Question 47

Tank Construction Features (Fixed Facility):

Covered Floating Roof:

Answer 47

pg.5

“Covered Floating Roof: A large tank that has an external steel roof and an internal floating roof.”

Question 48

Tank Construction Features (Fixed Facility):

Double Bottom:

Answer 48

pg.5

Double Bottom: A feature of large tanks designed to prevent environmental contamination from a leak at the bottom of the tank. Leak detection equipment is typically provided within the space between the double tank bottoms.

Question 49

Tank Construction Features (Fixed Facility):

Foam Dam:

Answer 49

pg.5

“Foam Dam: Fire protection feature installed on some floating roofs to limit foam application to the rim area of the roof.”

Question 50

Tank Construction Features (Fixed Facility):

Eye Brow Vent:

Answer 50

hooded metal structure on the top edge of a fixed roof tank

provides weather protection over vent ports for floating roof tank

pg.6

“Eye Brow Vent: A hooded metal structure attached to the exterior top edge of a fixed roof tank, which provides weather protection over the vent ports for an internal floating roof tank.”

Question 51

Tank Construction Features (Fixed Facility):

Geodesic Dome Roof:

Answer 51

pg.6

“Geodesic Dome Roof: A lightweight roof type of characteristic design.”

Question 52

Tank Construction Features (Fixed Facility):

Horizontal Tank:

Answer 52

pg.6

“Horizontal Tank: An aboveground tank of smaller capacity, typically not more than 30,000 gallons, oriented with the cylinder in a horizontal position. These tanks may be of single or double wall construction. Tanks with single wall construction should be provided with secondary containment.”

Question 53

Tank Construction Features (Fixed Facility):

Open Floating Roof:

Answer 53

pg.6

“Open Floating Roof: A large tank that is open at the top but has a roof that floats on top of the product within the tank.”

Question 54

Tank Construction Features (Fixed Facility):

Weak Roof to Shell Seam:

Answer 54

pg.6

“Weak Roof to Shell Seam: A weld that is less strong allowing the roof to blow away in an explosion, exposing the surface of the interior of the tank.”

Question 55

Vapor Density:

Answer 55

The weight of a vapor compared to the weight of dry air.

pg.6

“The weight of a vapor compared to the weight of dry air. Substances lighter than air are said to have vapor densities less than 1.0 and those heavier than air have a vapor density greater than 1.0.”

Question 56

Substances lighter than air have a vapor densiy of what?

Answer 56

less than 1.0

pg.6

“Substances lighter than air are said to have vapor densities less than 1.0 and those heavier than air have a vapor density greater than 1.0.””

Question 56

Vapor Recovery/Combustor Systems (Fixed Facility):

Answer 56

Designed to recover or burn peroleum vapors for enviromental reasons

pg.6

“Systems designed to recover or burn petroleum vapors for environmental reasons. Vapors are collected by tank vehicles at the point of delivery and are returned to the bulk petroleum storage facility complex for disposal. Vapor recovery systems return the vapors to liquid state by a process of compression and/or cooling.”

Question 57

Substances heavie than air have a vapor density of what?

Answer 57

1. 0
   pg. 6

“Substances lighter than air are said to have vapor densities less than 1.0 and those heavier than air have a vapor density greater than 1.0.””

Question 58

Specific Gravity:

Answer 58

pg.6

“Specific Gravity: The ratio of the density of a liquid to the density of water.”

Question 59

What are the three operating modes typically used at an incident involving a flammable liquid?

Answer 59

offensive attack mode, defensive attack mode, and non-intervention mode.

pg.7

“There are three operating modes typically used at an incident involving a flammable liquid: offensive attack mode, defensive attack mode, and non-intervention mode.”

Question 60

When to use an offensive mode attack:

Answer 60

rescue operations can be quickly achieved, the spill or leak can be quickly contained, or the fire can be quickly extinguished.

pg.7

“Offensive attack mode is a commitment of resources to aggressive leak, spill, and fire control objectives. This operating mode is used where additional risk is justified because rescue operations can be quickly achieved, the spill or leak can be quickly contained, or the fire can be quickly extinguished.”

Question 61

When to use a defensive mode attack:

Answer 61

the benefit of offensive attack is not worth the risk involved, but where other actions can be taken to mitigate the hazard or protect exposures

pg.8

“The defensive attack mode uses available resources to achieve less aggressive objectives, such as limiting the overall size or spread of the problem. This operating mode is used where the benefit of offensive attack is not worth the risk involved, but where other actions can be taken to mitigate the hazard or protect exposures.”

Question 62

What does Non-intervention mode mean?

Answer 62

taking no immediate action other than isolating the area until the risk of intervention is reduced to an acceptable level

pg.8

“Non-intervention mode means taking no immediate action other than isolating the area until the risk of intervention is reduced to an acceptable level so that operations may transition to offensive or defensive strategies. This operating mode may be used while assembling resources to commence an offensive attack. Consideration must be given to the use of the non-intervention mode particularly when dealing with ethanol fires or large-scale incidents, such as a rail car fire, until appropriate resources are available.”

Question 63

Recon teams should be equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and what other equipment?

Answer 63

detection equipment, binoculars, and thermal imager.

pg.8

“The first engine company should perform reconnaissance (recon) of the suspected hazard area for leak/spill/fire. Recon teams should be equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), detection equipment, binoculars, and thermal imager. The recon team must comply with the two-in/two-out rule.”

Question 64

First Engine Company Actions:

Answer 64

• size up
• contact responsible party or facilities representative
• determin situation/actions taken prior to arrival
• During on-scene report confirm stagin + inital assignments to arriving units
• Complete recon/report findings/recommendations for operating mode and initial isolation zone

pg.8

“The first engine company shall perform the initial size-up and identify any obvious life hazards. During the size-up, note any visual indicators of hazards, such as smoke, vapor clouds, active leaks, or odors. The first engine should initiate hazard protection for life safety and rescue measures if deemed necessary.

The first engine company should make contact with the responsible party or the facility representative, determine the current situation, and ask about any actions taken prior to arrival of fire department personnel.

When delivering the on-scene report, the first engine company officer (initial Incident Commander) must confirm staging area and make initial assignments to units arriving on the scene.

The first engine company should perform reconnaissance (recon) of the suspected hazard area for leak/spill/fire. Recon teams should be equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), detection equipment, binoculars, and thermal imager. The recon team must comply with the two-in/two-out rule.”

Question 65

The reconnaissance report should answer the following questions:

Answer 65

pg.8

 Is there any life hazard?

 What is the product type? Is it flammable or combustible? Is it a hydrocarbon or polar

solvent? Refer to Emergency Response Guidebook.

 Is the product still leaking? If so, what is the flow rate of the leak?

 Can the leak be controlled?

 How much has been spilled?

 What is the approximate surface area of the spill or fire?

 What is the total potential spill?

 Is the spill or fire contained?

 Where is the product going?

 For a spill, are any potential ignitions sources present?

 For fires and spills, what are the primary and secondary exposures?

 Is the area secure from unauthorized entry?

Question 66

First-arriving Battalion Chief Actions:

Answer 66

• Situation report from IC/Assume Command
• assemble essential staff +facility assistance 2 support unified command
• Risk assessment/life safety considerations/exposures

pg.9

“The first-arriving battalion chief should obtain the situation report from the initial IC and assume command of the incident. He or she should then assemble essential staff and facility assistance to support unified command. A key role of the first battalion chief is to perform the risk assessment for fire department personnel and review life safety considerations and potential exposures for civilian personnel on site.”

Based on the initial size-up, the following items should be considered:

 The need for greater alarms,

 Establishing an operating mode for the incident and the creation of a plan for continued

operations,

 Ensure specialized needs and resources for the incident are enroute, to include apparatus

with portable folding tanks for remote foam fill/draft sites,

 EMS support,

 Deployment of units from the staging area, and

 Scene security and safety.

The battalion chief should also confirm with facility representatives the level to which emergency plans have been initiated.

Question 67

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 67

PG.9

“water supply should be a high-priority consideration during any flammable liquids emergency.”

Question 68

Fixed Facilities Water Supply:

Answer 68

pg.9

“For flammable liquids emergency incidents involving fixed facilities such as distribution centers, storage facilities, and other commercial manufacturing or storage facilities, municipal water supplies or onsite commercial water supplies should be used. These systems were engineered so that potential releases and or fires could be controlled and or contained within the facility boundaries.”

Question 69

What is the rule of thumb when developng your water supply plan?

Answer 69

supply should be able to flow at least 1000 gpm of finished product per unit flowing product

pg.10

“The rule of thumb when developing your water supply plan is that the supply should be able to flow at least 1000 GPM of finished product per unit flowing product.”

Question 70

The IC should establish a water supply group or officer in the initial stages of the incident. This responsibility should be given to whom?

Answer 70

third due engine officer or second due battalion chief.

pg.10

“The IC should establish a water supply group or officer in the initial stages of the incident. This responsibility should be given to the third due engine officer or to the second due battalion chief.”

Question 71

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 71

PG.10”

When an incident occurs on a limited-access highway or in a rural area, water supply must take a higher priority. During these incidents the strategies and tactics described in the Water Supply for Suburban and Rural Firefighting manual should be used. Early activation of a tanker task force, even during the initial dispatch would be beneficial and is encouraged as it allows for sufficient water to arrive faster in case a quick knock down or life safety issue is present.”

Question 72

Large-diameter hose (LDH) trailers. Dulles International Airport:

Answer 72

3000 ft of 7 inch LDH

pg.10

“Other resources available to the IC are the availability of large-diameter hose (LDH) trailers. Dulles International Airport has a trailer which carries 3000 feet of 7-inch LDH”

Question 73

Large-diameter hose trailers, City of Fairfax:

Answer 73

900 ft of 5 inch LDH on the foam nozzle trailer

1000 ft on the foam pump trailer

pg.10

“the City of Fairfax carries 900 feet of 5-inch LDH on the foam nozzle trailer and 1000 feet on the foam pump trailer.”

Question 74

In regards to class b fires what are the 2 main types of product that may be dealt with?

Answer 74

Hydrocarbons and Polar solvents

pg.10

“The two main types of product that may be dealt with are hydrocarbons and polar solvents. Hydrocarbons are organic compounds containing only hydrogen and carbon and are found primarily in petroleum products and coal. Most hydrocarbons are a byproduct of crude oil or have been extracted from vegetable fiber. Typical hydrocarbon fuels include gasoline and diesel fuel.

Polar solvents are products of distillation that are water soluble. As a result, polar solvents have an attraction to water and controlling spills and fires of this product necessitate the use of special types of foams. Examples or polar solvents include alcohols (such as ethanol), ketones, and lacquers.

Hydrocarbons and polar solvents may be further classified as flammable or combustible. Flammable liquids are those having a flash point below 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.78 degrees C) and having a vapor pressure not exceeding 40 psi absolute.

Combustible liquids have a flash point above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.78 degrees C) and below 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93.33 Celsius).”

Question 75

Reformulated gasoline

Answer 75

gasoline in which the composition has been changed to reduce automotive emissions.

reacts more like a polar solvent and should be treated as such.

pg.11

“Reformulated gasoline (RFG) is gasoline in which the composition has been changed to reduce automotive emissions. RFG has lower levels of volatile compounds and benzene, and contains oxygenates such as ether, methanol or ethanol. RFG with greater than 10% oxygenate additives reacts more like a polar solvent and should be treated as such.”

Question 76

What is recommended for extinguishing an ethanol fuel fire and why?

Answer 76

Alcohol-Resistant (AR) foam.

Ethanol fuels are water soluble and will blend with water so foam is recommended for extinguishment.

pg.11

“The addition of ethanol to gasoline presents some unique firefighting challenges. Traditional methods of firefighting against hydrocarbon (gasoline) fires have been found to be ineffective against these polar solvent-type (ethanol-blended) fuels. While gasoline will tend to float on top of water, ethanol fuels are water soluble and will tend to blend with the water. For this reason, the use of Alcohol-Resistant (AR) foam as a means of extinguishing an ethanol fire is recommended”

Question 77

What is the most common ethanol-blended fuel?

Answer 77

E-10 (10 percent ethanol and 90 percent gasoline

may be labeled RFG or oxygenated gasoline

pg.11

“Ethanol-blended fuels may include blends of gasoline and ethanol in any ratio, but presently there are three common ethanol-blended fuels. Most common is E-10 (10 percent ethanol and 90 percent gasoline) which may be labeled as RFG or oxygenated gasoline.”

Question 78

E-85 contains whatpercentage of gasoline and what percentage of ethanol?

Answer 78

85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline

pg.12

“E-85 (85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline) is sold into a developing market as a retail blend for Flexible- Fuel Vehicles (FFV) only.”

Question 79

E-95:

Answer 79

pg.12

“ethanol that has been denatured with 5 percent unleaded gasoline”

Question 80

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 80

pg.12

“While ethanol has been consistently blended at the 5.7 percent and 7.7 percent level in California, it is more frequently blended at the 10 percent level by volume across the United States.”

Question 81

What is the flash point of pure ethanol?

Answer 81

55 degrees

pg.12

“Pure ethanol is a polar solvent that is water-soluble and has a 55°F flash point. Ethanol has a vapor density of 1.59, which indicates that it is heavier than air. Consequently, ethanol vapors do not rise, similar to vapors from gasoline, which seek lower altitudes. Ethanol’s specific gravity is 0.79, which indicates it is lighter than water but since it is water-soluble (hydrophilic) it will thoroughly mix with water. Ethanol has an auto-ignition temperature of 793°F and a boiling point of 173°F. Ethanol is less toxic than gasoline or methanol. Carcinogenic compounds are not present in pure ethanol.”

Question 82

What is the vapor density of Ethanol?

Answer 82

1. 59
   pg. 12

“Pure ethanol is a polar solvent that is water-soluble and has a 55°F flash point. Ethanol has a vapor density of 1.59, which indicates that it is heavier than air. Consequently, ethanol vapors do not rise, similar to vapors from gasoline, which seek lower altitudes. Ethanol’s specific gravity is 0.79, which indicates it is lighter than water but since it is water-soluble (hydrophilic) it will thoroughly mix with water. Ethanol has an auto-ignition temperature of 793°F and a boiling point of 173°F. Ethanol is less toxic than gasoline or methanol. Carcinogenic compounds are not present in pure ethanol.”

Question 83

What is Ethanol’s LEL and UEL?

Answer 83

3.3 percent

19 percent

pg.12

“Like gasoline, ethanol’s greatest hazard as a motor fuel component is its flammability. It has a wider flammable range than gasoline: the lower explosive limit (LEL) is 3.3 percent and the upper explosive limit (UEL) is 19 percent. In a pure form, ethanol does not produce visible smoke and has a hard-to-see blue flame. In a denatured form there is little to no smoke, but a slight orange flame may be visible”

Question 84

Can gasoline conduct electricity?

Answer 84

no

pg.13

“ethanol and some ethanol blends can conduct electricity while gasoline does not and is considered an electrical insulator.”

Question 85

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 85

PG.13

“Higher concentrations of ethanol produce less black smoke and decreased visible flame color. Another noticeable difference of ethanol-blended fuels under fire conditions is that when foam or water has been flowed on the burning product, the gasoline will tend to burn off first, eventually leaving the less volatile ethanol/water solution which may have no visible flame or smoke.”

Question 86

How is the majority offuel Ethanol (E-95) transported from production facilities to the storage?

Answer 86

by rail

pg.13

“The majority of the fuel ethanol (E-95) is transported from the production facilities to the storage depots by rail. Storage depots that do not have rail access receive E-95 by road tankers. There is some transfer of fuel ethanol from rail tanks directly to road tankers called trans-loading.”

Question 87

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 87

Pg.14

“Note: Due to catastrophic failure occurring in past incidents, it cannot be emphasized enough that in an incident involving an ethanol carrier and fire, the declaration and use of the non-intervention mode while maintaining maximum safe distances is imperative. Assembling appropriate resources and protecting exposures must become the main objectives.”

Question 88

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 88

pg.14

“R-type foams must be applied to ethanol fires using Type II (fixed foam chambers) gentle application techniques. For responding emergency services, this will mean directing the foam stream onto a vertical surface and allowing it to run down onto the fuel. Direct application to the fuel surface will likely be ineffective unless the fuel depth is very shallow (i.e., 0.25 inches or less).”

Question 89

AFFF-type foams require approximately ___ gallon per minute (gpm) foam solution flow for every 10 square feet of burning surface on a hydrocarbon-type fuel.

Answer 89

1

pg.14

“AFFF-type foams require approximately 1 gallon per minute (gpm) foam solution flow for every 10 square feet of burning surface on a hydrocarbon-type fuel. Ethanol-blended fuels require approximately double that flow (2 gpm/10 square feet) of an AR-type foam solution for products not in depth. For ethanol-blended fuels in depth the required foam flow will be 3 gpm/10 square feet.”

Question 90

Ethanol-blended fuels require approximately ____ gpm/10 square feet) of an AR-type foam solution for products not in depth.

For ethanol-blended fuels in depth the required foam flow will be ____ gpm/10 square feet.

Answer 90

2

3

pg.14

“AFFF-type foams require approximately 1 gallon per minute (gpm) foam solution flow for every 10 square feet of burning surface on a hydrocarbon-type fuel. Ethanol-blended fuels require approximately double that flow (2 gpm/10 square feet) of an AR-type foam solution for products not in depth. For ethanol-blended fuels in depth the required foam flow will be 3 gpm/10 square feet.”

Question 91

When uncertain as to whether the fire encountered is an alcohol- or ethanol-blended fuel, fire departments may want to consider doing what?

Answer 91

doubling their application rate

pg.15

“When uncertain as to whether the fire encountered is an alcohol- or ethanol-blended fuel, fire departments may want to consider doubling their application rate (gpm) ability since ethanol-blended fuels require a higher rate of flow, keeping in mind that increasing the flow rate also increases water requirements.”

Question 92

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 92

pg.15

“AR foams are effective on both alcohol fires and hydrocarbon fires.”

Question 93

What are the resources required for the management of a small spill not occurring inside a structure?

Answer 93

• 1 engine company w/atmospheric monitoring
• consider hazmat response
• If spill ignites, request a Foam Task Force

pg.16

 One engine company with atmospheric monitoring capabilities.

 The engine company officer should consider a hazardous materials response (per

jurisdictional guidelines).

 If spill ignites, a Foam Task Force (FTF) (two AR foam units, one pump-and-roll unit,

two engines, one battalion chief, and one hazardous materials asset if not already dispatched) should be requested.

Question 94

Foam Task Force compliment?

Answer 94

2 ar foam units

2 engines

1 bc

1 hazardous materials asset

1 pump and roll unit

pg.16

 One engine company with atmospheric monitoring capabilities.

 The engine company officer should consider a hazardous materials response (per

jurisdictional guidelines).

 If spill ignites, a Foam Task Force (FTF) (two AR foam units, one pump-and-roll unit,

two engines, one battalion chief, and one hazardous materials asset if not already dispatched) should be requested.

 One engine company with atmospheric monitoring capabilities.

 The engine company officer should consider a hazardous materials response (per

jurisdictional guidelines).

 If spill ignites, a Foam Task Force (FTF) (two AR foam units, one pump-and-roll unit,

two engines, one battalion chief, and one hazardous materials asset if not already dispatched) should be requested.

Large Spills

Question 95

Large spills inclued any incident’s located where?

Answer 95

pipelines, horizontal tanks, tank farms, flammable liuuid tanker trucks or rail car

pg.16

“Large spill responses include any incident at or involving pipelines, horizontal tanks, tank farms, or flammable liquid tanker trucks or rail cars.”

Question 96

The resources required for the management of a large spill with or without fire include the following:

Answer 96

• 4 engines
• 2 specialty units – one must be an aerial device
• 2 EMS units
• 1 battalion chief
• 1 command aide
• 1 EMS supervisor
• 1 Foam Task Force (FTF)
• A hazardous material response
  pg. 16

4 engines

 2 specialty units – one must be an aerial device

 2 EMS units

 1 battalion chief

 1 command aide

 1 EMS supervisor

 1 Foam Task Force (FTF) (two AR foam units, one pump-and-roll unit, two engines, one

battalion chief, and one hazardous materials asset if not already dispatched)

 A hazardous material response (based on jurisdictional requirements)

Question 97

What should Incident Commanders request for response in non-hydrant areas?

Answer 97

Tanker task force

pg.16

“Incident Commanders should request a tanker task force response in non-hydrant areas.”

Question 98

4 tactical approaches to tanker truck incidents:

Answer 98

• assemble resources/extinguish fire w/Class B foam.
• for combustible liquids extinguish fire w/water fog
• protect exposures + allow fuel to burn itself out.
• dike un-ignited leak and spills at a safe location. cover liquid w/foam to suppress/control vapors

pg. 17
1. First, assemble the resources and extinguish the fire with Class B foam. Be sure an adequate foam and water supply is available before initiating the attack. Blended alcohol fuels will require an AR foam concentrate.
2. Second, for combustible liquids, extinguish the fire with water fog when it can be done without creating environmental problems with the runoff. Large, hot fires of combustible liquids (such as tank trucks) will require foam application for timely extinguishments.
3. Third, protect adjacent exposures, and allow the fuel to burn itself out. If the incident occurs in a rural area, obtaining sufficient water can be a problem. Develop plans for sustaining water supplies with fire department vehicles or large-diameter hose relays along major roads and expressways.
4. And lastly, un-ignited leaks and spills should be diked immediately at a safe location and the liquid covered with foam to suppress and control the flammable vapors. Remove all ignition sources.

Question 99

While en route, responders should plan to approach from what direction if possible?

Answer 99

uphill/upwind

pg.17

“While en route, responders should plan to approach only from the uphill/upwind direction if possible.”

Question 100

There is a great likelihood that an over the road transport vehicle will carry what type of based product?

Answer 100

Ethanol-based

pg.18

“There is a great likelihood that an over the road transport vehicle will carry an ethanol-based product. Since both gasoline and ethanol-blended fuels have very similar physical and chemical characteristics, they will be transported in the same general types of containers and tanks. The most prevalent style of transport of the blended fuels that emergency responders will encounter will be by MC-306 and Department of Transportation (DOT)-406 style road tankers, Figure 3. These tankers are non-pressurized and have a capacity up to 9,000 gallons. Depending on the types of product being carried, the tanker is divided into compartments.”

Question 101

The MC306/DOT406 has outlets located where on the trailer for on- and off-loading the product?

Answer 101

underside

pg.18

“The MC306/DOT406 has outlets on the underside of the trailer for on- and off-loading the product. In addition to the outlets on the bottom, pressure and vacuum relief devices will be the same as those that are currently found on gasoline-style transport takers. The valve is internal to the tanks with breakaway piping, remote shut-off controls, and vapor recovery systems. Vents and caps can fail or leak as a result of rollover accidents.”

Question 102

In the instance of an incident involving an ethanol carrier and fire, what type of operation mode should be used?

Answer 102

Non-intervention mode, while maintaining a safe distance.

pg.18

“Due to catastrophic failure occurring in past incidents, it cannot be emphasized enough that in the instance of an incident involving an ethanol carrier and fire that the declaration and use of the non-intervention mode while maintaining maximum safe distances is imperative. Assembling appropriate resources and protecting exposures must become the objectives if there are no immediate life safety hazards. Rescues must be performed only after a risk vs. benefit analysis has been performed.”

Question 103

What is the suggested primary attack for an MC306/DOT406 ?

Answer 103

AR-AFFF finished foam.

AR-AFFF unit

pg.18

“Since there is a good chance that an MC306/DOT406 style road tanker will carry an ethanol- based product, the suggested primary attack is with an AR-AFFF finished foam. The preferred method of attack would be the use of an AR-AFFF unit. The AFFF pump-and-roll unit would remain as RIT or back up to the AR-AFFF. If life rescue is necessary, the pump-and-roll unit is capable and can function as the attack unit in a limited role. Initial actions include rescuing occupants of vehicles (body recovery can wait) and protecting exposures.”

Question 104

Preferabble apparatus positioning?

Answer 104

uphill + upwind

pg.19

“Since there is a good chance that an MC306/DOT406 style road tanker will carry an ethanol- based product, the suggested primary attack is with an AR-AFFF finished foam. The preferred method of attack would be the use of an AR-AFFF unit. The AFFF pump-and-roll unit would remain as RIT or back up to the AR-AFFF. If life rescue is necessary, the pump-and-roll unit is capable and can function as the attack unit in a limited role. Initial actions include rescuing occupants of vehicles (body recovery can wait) and protecting exposures.”

Question 105

Size-up

Answer 105

pg.20

Ascertain type of incident: fire, spill, fire with spill.

 From a distance (500 feet) use binoculars to look for placards or other warnings and the

product name or number on the tractor or trailer.

 Get information from people on the scene (driver, eyewitnesses, shipping papers or other

identifying paperwork).

 Determine scope of incident: number of involved vehicles and/or people affected.

 Determine best scene access.

 Determine water supply.

 Pay extra concern to exposures. Allow the tanker truck to burn and assign units

cool/protect the exposures.

 Remember that the tractor or uninvolved portion of a multi-unit (tractor trailer or multiple

trailers with a single tractor) is an important exposure. It may be necessary to disconnect the tractor or unhitch a trailer and remove it from exposure. Diking around the vehicle or damming a drainage ditch may be required to limit a running-spill fire.

 Use master streams or other unmanned heavy caliber streams to keep suppression resources remote.

 Attack from high ground with the wind at your back, checking for any overhead wires and coordinating streams so they do not oppose each other. Flush the fire away from exposures and into less hazardous areas. If agent is limited, use it to protect exposures. Agent that runs off is wasted. Do not wash away foam blankets with water streams.

Question 106

What are the PSI for the following:

• Service rail cars
• High-pressure rail cars

Answer 106

• Service rail cars - (<100psi)
• High-pressure rail cars - (100-600psi)

pg.21

“Flammable liquids will be found most often in general service rail cars (<100psi), Figure 5 and Figure 6, though some may be transported in a high-pressure rail car (100-600 psi). General service rail cars will carry approximately 30,000 gallons of product, will be bottom loaded and unloaded, and have pressure and vacuum relief devices similar as those currently found on highway tanker trucks.”

Question 107

General servie rail cars carry exatcly how much product?

Answer 107

30,000 gallons of product

pg.21

“Flammable liquids will be found most often in general service rail cars (<100psi), Figure 5 and Figure 6, though some may be transported in a high-pressure rail car (100-600 psi). General service rail cars will carry approximately 30,000 gallons of product, will be bottom loaded and unloaded, and have pressure and vacuum relief devices similar as those currently found on highway tanker trucks.”

Question 108

An MC306/DOT406 highway tanker truck carries how much product?

Answer 108

8,000-9,000

pg.22

The important factor to remember is that though there are approximately 30,000 gallons of product in a single DOT 111 General Service Rail Tank Car compared to 8,000-9,000 gallons in the MC306/DOT406 highway tanker truck, the four tactical approaches do not change for the single rail tank car placarded as carrying flammable liquids that is on fire:

 Assemble the resources and extinguish the fire with Class B foam.
 Extinguish combustible fires with a water fog so long as runoff is not an issue.

 Protect adjacent exposures (this may and should include other tank cars).
 Un-ignited leaks should be diked immediately at a safe location.

Question 109

4 tactical approaches for a single rail tank car placarded as carrying flammable iquids that is on fire:

Answer 109

• Gather resources/extinguish fire w/class B foam
• Extinguish combustible fires w/water fog
• Protect exposures
• Dike Uniignted leaks at a safe location

pg.22

The important factor to remember is that though there are approximately 30,000 gallons of product in a single DOT 111 General Service Rail Tank Car compared to 8,000-9,000 gallons in the MC306/DOT406 highway tanker truck, the four tactical approaches do not change for the single rail tank car placarded as carrying flammable liquids that is on fire:

 Assemble the resources and extinguish the fire with Class B foam.
 Extinguish combustible fires with a water fog so long as runoff is not an issue.

 Protect adjacent exposures (this may and should include other tank cars).
 Un-ignited leaks should be diked immediately at a safe location.

Question 110

What is the leading single hazardous material transported by rail?

Answer 110

E-95

pg.22

“E-95 has now become the leading single hazardous material transported by rail,”

Question 111

Is diesel considered a flammable liquid?

Answer 111

no, but it is combustible.

pg.23

“Though diesel is not considered a flammable liquid it is a combustible liquid and you may find fire at the locomotive itself that will require extinguishment. The principles remain the same- use Class B foam and perform containment tactics. Hit the emergency fuel stop on either side of the locomotive if in absence of train official to perform task for you. Chock wheels as with any rail car. The diesel fuel tank is going to be found on the under-belly of the locomotive approximately midway from front or rear”

Question 113

flaggers should be placed where for a flammable liquid rail incident?

Answer 113

2 miles forward in each direction

pg.25

Set Up

 Establish and maintain command until relieved.
 Declare an operational mode: offensive, defensive, non-intervention.
 Establish a staging area.
 Set-up flaggers per jurisdiction’s SOP’s two miles forward in each direction.
 Set up scene access and egress.
 Set up a perimeter using fire line tape or other means.
 Establish an isolated holding area for personnel or victims who become contaminated.

Question 114

The Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority (MWAA) Who has jurisdiction over any aircraft events on airport property?

Answer 114

The Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority (MWAA)

pg.26

“The Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority (MWAA) has jurisdiction over any aircraft events on airport property, and will automatically respond to any event known to be within five miles of either Dulles International Airport or Reagan National Airport. They can be requested for any downed aircraft event, regardless of location and/or jurisdiction on a mutual aid basis.”

Question 115

Off-Airport Responses to Aircraft Incidents:

Answer 115

• Large spill resources
• Consider pump-and-roll foam units

pg.26

“The resources required for the management of a downed aircraft off airport property includes the resources for a large spill (as outlined earlier in the manual) in addition to EMS resources per jurisdictional requirements. The Incident Commander should consider more pump-and-roll foam units based on the topography of the crash scene.”

Question 116

What are the 2 primary factors for transformer fires?

Answer 116

Load and Age.

pg.27

“The two primary factors for transformer fires are load and age. Faults caused by insulation breakdown and the presence of gas or water in the oil will eventually lead to a failure. Once a transformer experiences a fault condition, there is usually enough energy to cause a mechanical failure leading to an oil release. When there are internal maintenance problems, pressure builds and the transformer can rupture along a seam resulting in an oil leak.”

Question 117

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 117

PG.27

“foam should not be applied to energized electrical equipment. Always assume that electrical equipment is energized and dangerous until the power company advises that it is safe.”

Question 118

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 118

PG.27

“A small fire may be able to be quickly knocked down with a dry chemical extinguisher prior to the power being shut down if absolutely necessary.”

Question 119

Larger transformer incidents may require the response of what units?

Answer 119

• Hazardous materials
• foam task force and use of Purple K for extinguishment

pg.27

“Larger transformer incidents may require the response of a hazardous materials unit as well as a foam task force and the use of Purple K for extinguishment.”

Question 120

PCB’S

Answer 120

Pg.27/28

“Though the use of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) is now negligible, and there are several NOVA establishments that have registered the use of PCB-filled transformers and generators. Some unlabeled, unregistered transformers may also still be found. Consideration should be made to evaluate for their presence; use preplanning and look for labels. If PCBs are suspected, request hazardous materials support. Protect from all routes of exposure and wear appropriate PPE to include SCBA. It is absolutely imperative that PCBs and any runoff be prevented from entering drains, waterways, etc. Small amounts can be absorbed with kitty litter and treated as hazardous waste. Though PCBs are not considered flammable they are able to burn and will produce extremely toxic smoke. Refer to the ERG for evacuation distances when PCBs are suspected to be involved in a fire.”

Question 121

What are the resoucres required for the management of a pipeline rupture or fire?

Answer 121

Large spill response

pg.29

“The resources required for the management of a pipeline rupture or fire is a large spill response.”

Question 122

What are the 3 benchmarks for every flammable or cumbustible liquid incident?

Answer 122

pg.31

• Life safety
• Incident stabilization/prtecting the environment
• Property conservation

Question 123

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 123

pg.35

“When a finished foam blanket has been applied within the rescue area, a second foam hand line shall be used to reseal the fuel surface and maintain vapor suppression while the rescue group is in transit.”

Question 124

Fuel Spill at a Loading Rack Structure - Exposures

Answer 124

pg.36

“At a minimum, the team or group tasked to establish the hot zone for incident operation and exposure identification shall use two monitors capable of displaying numerical values as a percentage of the lower and upper explosive limits.”

Question 125

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 125

pg.38

“Spills of petroleum products are normally long, drawn out operations that may easily last several days.”

Question 126

NOTEWORTHY

Answer 126

pg.39

 Never approach from the end of the vehicle.

 Attempt to bank the finished foam off the vehicle tank if other application methods are

not producing results during application.

 Extinguish all ground fires before concentrating on any fire associated with the tanker.

Question 127

Cone/Fixed Roof Tanks characteristics:

Answer 127

• fixedroofseither cone, dome, or relatively flat
• Tanks >50ft require a weak roof to shell seam

pg.44

“Cone/fixed roof type of tanks have fixed roofs that are either cone, dome or relatively flat by design, Figure 17. Any tank greater than 50 feet in diameter is required to have a weak roof-to- shell seam. In the event of an internal explosion, the roof is designed to peel back or blow off, leaving the surface of the petroleum liquid exposed. Due to the various vapor pressures of flammable and combustible liquids, cone roof tanks also have pressure/vacuum vents located on the roof to balance internal and external pressures.”

Question 128

Snapping blue-red and nearly smokeless flames indicates what?

Answer 128

the vapor/air mixture within the tank is within the flammable range.

pg.44

“Snapping blue-red and nearly smokeless flames indicate the vapor/air mixture within the tank is within the flammable range. As long as the tank is breathing out through the pressure vent, the flame cannot flash back into the tank due to the positive and high pressure vapor flow through the opening.”

Question 129

General strategies and tactics to manage a tank vent fire could include:

Answer 129

• Cooling water to lower tank temp and vapor pressure
• Simultaneous water and dry chem application

pg.45

General strategies and tactics to manage a tank vent fire could include:

 Application of cooling water to lower the internal tank temperature and vapor pressure sufficiently to allow the vent to reset and extinguish the fire automatically.

 Simultaneous application of water via hose streams and dry chemical extinguishing agent. The method is tactically referred to as a hydro-chem application method.

Question 130

Vent fires burning with a yellow-orange flame and emitting black smoke indicates what?

Answer 130

the vapor/air mixture is above the flammable range.

pg.45

“Vent fires burning with a yellow-orange flame and emitting black smoke indicate the vapor/air mixture is above the flammable range.”

Question 131

Horizontal and vertical tanks are typically designed to American Petroleum Institute (API) standards. These tanks handle internal pressures that do not exceed ____ psig and are intended to hold liquids or vapors.

Answer 131

15

pg.51

“Horizontal and vertical tanks are typically designed to American Petroleum Institute (API) standards. These tanks handle internal pressures that do not exceed 15 psig and are intended to hold liquids or vapors. The tanks are cylindrical in shape with top and bottom ends for vertical tanks and two ends for horizontal tanks. Horizontal tanks are normally mounted on concrete supports, but some older storage tanks are mounted on structural steel”

Question 132

What are the two unique problems associated with Low pressure storage tanks use?

Answer 132

1. Vent fire w/no associated spill of product
2. fire because of overfilling

pg.52

“The first problem is a vent fire with no associated spill of product and the second is a fire resulting from overfilling.

In a vent fire with no associated spill of product, the fire may burn lazily above and around the vent or with some intensity depending on the liquid’s temperature, the liquid’s vapor pressure, wind speed, and direction.

The most important tactical issue with a vent fire involving a low pressure horizontal or vertical tank is keeping the upper portion of the exposed tank shell cool with adequate water flow until such time as the fire can be extinguished.”

Question 133

Small SPills & Fire Response

1st Engine:

Question 134

Large Spills/Fires, Tanker Truck Incidents, Bulk Petroleum Storage Facility Incidents, Pipeline Incidents, Rail Incidents, and Off-Airport Incidents:

Answer 134

Question 135

APPENDIX B: FOAM REQUIREMENT TABLE FOR SPILL FIRES

The surface area of the spill fire is the length multiplied by width, round to the next higher area in the table. Officers should ensure that they have concentrate and water to sustain a 20-minute attack.

Question 136

Application Techniques:

Answer 136

• Type 1- Obsolete, not used in NOVA.
• Type 2- subsurface or topside, delivers foam to surface of burning liquid w/little agitation.
• Type 3 - Master streams/hand lines to the burning surface. some agitation.

pg.60

• Type I – Obsolete; not used in NOVA region. This type of application was intended to deliver finished foam to burning surface gently and with minimal agitation.
• Type II – Fixed and Semi fixed foam outlet, either subsurface or topside, designed to- deliver finished foam to surface of burning liquid with restricted agitation.
• Type III - Use of master streams and hand line nozzles to deliver finished foam to the burning surface in a manner that results in some agitation of the surface.

Question 137

What is the preferred foam application method for Ethanol Fuel Fires?

Answer 137

Bank-down method.

pg.61

“In the bank-down method (deflect) direct the foam stream off an object that is elevated above the spill, and allow finished foam to run down onto the surface of the fuel. Bank finished foam off a wall, support column, vehicle, or any other similar object in the area of the spill. It may be necessary to direct the foam stream off various points around the spill area to achieve total coverage, Figure 26. This method of application is preferred for use with Ethanol fuel fires.”

Question 138

Rain-down method of foam application:

Answer 138

pg.61

“In the rain-down (raindrop) method, direct the foam stream into the air above the spill and allow finished foam to float gently down onto the surface of the fuel, Figure 27. Sweep the foam stream back and forth over the entire surface of the spill until it is completely covered. This method of attack should be used on small area spills and fires.”

Question 139

Roll-on method of foam application:

Answer 139

pg.60

“One method of application is the roll-on or bounce method. In this method, direct the foam stream on the ground near the front edge of the spill so finished foam rolls across the surface of the fuel. Continue applying finished foam until it is spread across the entire surface of the spill, Figure 25.”

Question 140

Fairfax County Foam Resources:

Answer 140