Instruction manual

PROFICIENCY IN SURVIVAL CRAFT AND RESCUE BOATS OTHER THAN
FAST RESCUE BOATS
8 7
4.Always check that cables are connected to their correct terminals before
reconnecting the batteries .A reversal of polarity or short circuit will destroy
diodes and transistors in the alternator and regulator.
5.Never flash any connections to check the current flow.
6.Always keep the electrical connections properly tightened.
8.4 Fire extinguisher
Dry chemical
This is the most common type, in cars as well as boats. Suitable for
liquid-fuel fires like petrol (Class B fires), and it does not conduct electricity
(Class E). The smaller sizes usually contain powder which is not very effective
against solid fuel fires (Class A). Larger dry chemical extinguishers are suitable
for A, B and E. This information is printed on the container.
Dry chemical extinguishers are filled with either foam or powder, usually
sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) or potassium bicarbonate, and pressurized
with nitrogen. Baking soda is effective because it decomposes at 158 degrees
Fahrenheit and releases carbon dioxide (which smothers oxygen) once it
decomposes. Dry chemical extinguishers interrupt the chemical reaction of the
fire by coating the fuel with a thin layer of powder or foam, separating the fuel
from the surrounding oxygen.
- Find the source of the fuel and shut it off. It will be very hard to put out
the fire if it is constantly being fed new fuel.
- Pull the pin on your fire extinguisher.
- Aim the extinguisher on top of the fire. You want the smothering
agents to fall over the top of the fire and smother it.
- Squeeze the lever on the fire extinguisher.
- Move the spray around the top of the fire. Dry chemical and foam
extinguishers will leave a film across the top of the diesel fuel that keep the fire
from flaring back up.
- Keep an eye on the fire site for about half an hour to ensure there are
no more flare ups.
Dry chemical extinguishers usually have a locking mechanism which
must be released. Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire and squeeze the
operating lever. Attack the fire near the edge and move toward the back of the
fire while sweeping the nozzle rapidly from side to side. Do not point the initial
discharge directly at the burning surface because the high velocity of the stream
can splash and scatter the burning material, making things worse.