Burning Man Theme Camp: 2008
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Fuel Safety Plan
Liquid Fuels
Any collection of 20 gallons or more of flammable
liquid must be kept within a secondary containment area. The containment method
can be as simple as a petroleum resistant tarp rolled up to provide a berm.
A supply of cat litter or fuel absorbant should be kept on hand near any spills basin.
All containers for liquid fuels must be
clearly labeled identifying contents and hazards. Original labels are
preferred.
A safety perimeter of 30 feet must be
maintained between liquid fuel containers and any camping area, and clear
access must be provided for the ESD in case of fire.
A sufficient amount of dry chemical
fire extinguishers must be kept visible and available near the storage location
of any liquid fuel.
Note: A petroleum, flammable liquid,
fire burns at the surface of the material, as it is vaporized by the fire or
ambient heat. Applying water merely spreads the flaming liquid over a wider
area, where it vaporizes more rapidly, intensifying the fire. The best way to
put out such a fire is to cut off its air supply or interrupts its chemical
chain reaction. The smothering agents commonly used for petroleum fires are
carbon dioxide (CO2) and dry chemical powder extinguishers. Both are effective
for flammable liquids, but dry chemical is better for outdoor use because it? not subject to wind, has a longer range and can extinguish
pressurized leaks of gas and liquid. For good all-around fire protection, use
an ABC or all-class fire extinguisher.
Safety Reminders
Store fuel away from any running generator.
Do not fill the tank on a generator
that is running.
When transferring fuel, use a pump.
Never try to start a siphon using your mouth. A mouth full of gas or diesel
could be fatal to you. For health reasons, wash hands after fueling.
Keep all equipment used for petroleum
storage and handling in good condition. Watch for leaks, deterioration, or
damage.
If fuel is spilled on your clothing,
move away from any ignition source, and allow the clothing to dry. Use
waterless soap for hands. If fuel should splash in eyes, use water to flush.
Be aware of static electricity that can
build up on you and or a container. Any spark can ignite gasoline vapors.
Always fill containers on the ground, not in vehicles.
Always use a bonding strap when
transferring flammables and combustibles between containers.