Equipment Fires and the P.A.S.S. method

We have recently lost a piece of equipment to fire. Fortunately, the operator of this equipment had no passengers on board and was able to exit the vehicle without any personal injury. The operator made a valiant attempt to extinguish the fire with the onboard fire extinguisher, however, he was unable to completely extinguish the blaze with the equipment on hand.

This is an excellent time to remember a few things about these types of situations. Here are a few high points for review:

  • Fire extinguishers are primarily for buying time to get your passengers and yourself off of the equipment safely in a fire emergency.
  • Fire extinguishers should be checked as part of the equipment pre-trip.
  • Fire extinguisher use should be performed as early as possible to buy the time you need to evacuate the equipment.
  • Always keep the fire in front of you and a safe emergency exit pathway behind you. Never place the fire between yourself and your exit pathway.
  • Do not be afraid to use an extinguisher early to suppress or extinguish a fire, the loss of life is permanent, cleaning or equipment repair is the better way to go.

 

Keeping yourself and your passengers safe in any emergency is the most important thing to keep in mind when you face a situation like this. Please remember A.I.D.E.:

Analyze the situation, Identify the hazard early, Define your safety solution and Execute that plan as quickly as possible.

Please take a few minutes to review this video presentation. Also, please remember to log into your Employee Portal and keep current on your monthly refresher training materials. If you have any questions or need help, you may reach out to safety@starlinecollection.com  for help at any time!