CDL Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME)Emergencies and AccidentsMedium
A driver discovers a small fire in the engine compartment of a truck that is transporting Division 5.1 Oxidizer materials. The fire is contained and has not spread to the cargo area. What is the most appropriate initial action for the driver to take regarding the fire?
- AUse a Class B fire extinguisher to put out the fire.
- BUse a Class D fire extinguisher, as oxidizers are involved in the cargo.
- CAttempt to extinguish the fire using water if available.
- DImmediately evacuate the area and call 911 without attempting to fight the fire.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Use a Class B fire extinguisher to put out the fire.
The fire is in the engine compartment, which typically involves flammable liquids (Class B fire). Oxidizers in the cargo, while hazardous, are not directly involved in the engine fire itself. A Class B extinguisher is appropriate for this type of fire.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Class D extinguishers are for combustible metals, which are not involved in an engine fire. While the cargo is an oxidizer, the fire itself is not in the cargo compartment and is not a Class D fire.
- C. Using water on an engine fire, especially near electrical components or fuel, can be ineffective or dangerous, and is not the primary recommended method for Class B fires.
- D. The question states the fire is small and contained in the engine compartment, implying it might be manageable with an appropriate extinguisher before escalating.
Engine Fire Response (HazMat Truck)
When an engine fire occurs on a HazMat truck, the primary concern is the engine fire itself, which is typically a Class B fire (flammable liquids). The hazardous materials in the cargo are a secondary consideration unless directly involved.
- Engine fires are usually Class B (flammable liquids).
- Use appropriate extinguisher (e.g., CO2, dry chemical).
- Assess cargo involvement if fire spreads.
Memory trick: Engine BLaze, Cargo's safe, Extinguish that Class B flame!