What is the recommended approach to extinguishing hydraulic fluid fires?

What is the recommended approach to extinguishing hydraulic fluid fires?

• A. Use extinguishing methods appropriate for hydraulic fluids and avoid ignition sources
• B. Use water jet directly on flames
• C. Use dry chemical exclusively
• D. Avoid any extinguishing agents

Answer: (A)

Extinguishing hydraulic fluid fires requires treating them as hydrocarbon fires and controlling the ignition sources. Hydraulic fluids are flammable liquids, so use extinguishing methods designed for hydrocarbon fuels—such as foam or dry chemical—that blanket or interrupt the fuel’s surface and reduce vapor release. Shutting off the fuel source and eliminating any ignition sources are essential to prevent reignition. Directly applying a water jet to the flames is not ideal for hydraulic fluids because water can spread the oil, spread the fire, and often doesn’t effectively cool or smother the liquid-fire surface. After applying the appropriate extinguishing agent, monitor the scene for hot spots and potential reignition.

Extinguishing hydraulic fluid fires requires treating them as hydrocarbon fires and controlling the ignition sources. Hydraulic fluids are flammable liquids, so use extinguishing methods designed for hydrocarbon fuels—such as foam or dry chemical—that blanket or interrupt the fuel’s surface and reduce vapor release. Shutting off the fuel source and eliminating any ignition sources are essential to prevent reignition.

Directly applying a water jet to the flames is not ideal for hydraulic fluids because water can spread the oil, spread the fire, and often doesn’t effectively cool or smother the liquid-fire surface. After applying the appropriate extinguishing agent, monitor the scene for hot spots and potential reignition.