If flames are coming from the venting pressure relief valve of a liquid propane gas tanker truck, which action is recommended?

If flames are coming from the venting pressure relief valve of a liquid propane gas tanker truck, which action is recommended?

• A. Extinguish the flames coming from the venting pressure relief valve.
• B. Direct handlines towards the vulnerable ends of the tanker truck.
• C. Crews should approach at 30-degree angles under wide fog streams.
• D. Not extinguish flame coming from the venting pressure relief valve.

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that a flame at the venting pressure relief valve on a propane tanker is part of the safety system, not a small fire to be fought. The relief valve is actively releasing gas to prevent the tank from overpressurizing, and sometimes that escaping gas will burn at the vent. Extinguishing that flame isn’t advised because it can interfere with the relief process and trap gas inside the tank or create a different hazard as pressure changes. The safer approach is to back away to a safe distance and keep the tank cool with defensive cooling and exposure protection while the vent continues to relieve pressure. If feasible and safe, manage the incident to minimize further ignition sources, but do not try to snuff out the vent flame.

The key idea is that a flame at the venting pressure relief valve on a propane tanker is part of the safety system, not a small fire to be fought. The relief valve is actively releasing gas to prevent the tank from overpressurizing, and sometimes that escaping gas will burn at the vent. Extinguishing that flame isn’t advised because it can interfere with the relief process and trap gas inside the tank or create a different hazard as pressure changes. The safer approach is to back away to a safe distance and keep the tank cool with defensive cooling and exposure protection while the vent continues to relieve pressure. If feasible and safe, manage the incident to minimize further ignition sources, but do not try to snuff out the vent flame.