Purpose:   The purpose of this procedure is to assure the efficient extinguishment of fires involving automobiles   and other light duty vehicles while maintaining the highest level of safety for all responding personnel.

Scope:          This procedure shall apply to all automobiles, pick‑up trucks, and light duty vans that are reported to be on fire.

Enforcement: The officer or acting officer has full responsibility for assuring compliance with this procedure. Authority to deviate from this procedure rests solely with the officer or acting officer who bears full responsibility for the results of any deviation. 

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL ANY ASPECT OF SAFETY BE SACRIFICED IN ORDER TO INCREASE THE SPEED OF THE ORERATIONS.

Procedure: APPARATUS APPROACH AND POSITIONING:

                                   Apparatus responding to a vehicle fire shall position their vehicles in the following manner (as conditions permit).

·        Uphill from the involved vehicle, to prevent burning fuel from running toward the apparatus.

·        Upwind from the involved vehicle, to minimize smoke exposure to the apparatus and the apparatus operator.

·        At least 100 feet from the involved vehicle to provide a safety zone around the involved vehicle, except in minor conditions.

·        Between working fire fighters and approaching traffic to protect personnel from traffic.

Safety Perimeter:

A safety perimeter shall be established around the involved vehicle. The area of the safety perimeter shall be all area within a 100 foot radius of the vehicle, except in minor conditions. All personnel operating within the safety perimeter shall be in full protective clothing and self‑contained breathing apparatus except in minor conditions.

Potential Hazards:

All personnel shall operate with an awareness of the following potential hazards:

·        Shock absorbing bumpers that may explode and separate from the vehicle.

·        Multiple or auxiliary fuel tanks.

·        Sealed drive shafts that may explode when heated.

·        Multiple batteries (especially on diesel vehicles).

·           Propane or CNG fuel tanks (especially on utility company vehicles).

·        High pressure hoses connected to air conditioning equipment that may separate or burst, releasing oil and pressurized freon gas.

·        Hood springs that may be weakened by exposure to fire (hood should be propped open with an appropriate tool).

·        To prevent movement during suppression operations, the wheels of the involved vehicle should be blocked. (If Possible)

·        Air Bags or Bags (SRS)

Fire Attack:

The initial attack shall be made with a line capable of flowing at least 100 GPM. If necessary, the initial line shall, as soon as possible, be backed up with a second line, also capable of flowing at least 100 GPM.

If possible, the vehicle should be approached at a 45-degree angle, so that fire fighters are not in a direct line with the front or rear bumpers. When approaching a well‑involved vehicle, a wide spray pattern will provide maximum protection for personnel.

Protect Fuel Tank(s):

Any fire exposing the fuel tank(s) should be controlled first. Exposed fuel tanks should be cooled to minimize internal pressure and the possibility of rupture. After all fire around the fuel tanks has been controlled, move to the passenger and engine compartments.

Engine and Passenger Compartments:

Use extreme caution when opening the passenger and engine compartments. Fire may flash outward when the compartment is ventilated. Always have charged hose lines available before the compartment is opened. All personnel should stand to the side when a compartment is opened.

Electrical System:

The electrical system should be secured as soon as possible by disconnecting or cutting the battery cables. Always disconnect the negative or ground cable first.

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