USCG Exam PracticeFirefighting, damage control, and emergency response
A fire breaks out in the machinery space. After alerting the crew and isolating the fire by closing hatches and ventilation, what is the NEXT correct step in the firefighting sequence?
- A. Ventilate the space carefully to prevent re-ignition
- ✓ Shut off fuel and electrical supply to the affected space, then attack with the appropriate extinguisherCorrect
- C. Immediately attack the fire with the nearest available extinguisher before taking any other action
- D. Notify the Coast Guard by radiotelephone before attempting to fight the fire
Why B is correct
The firefighting sequence per the Boatswain's Manual is: alert crew, isolate (close hatches/ventilation), shut off fuel and electrical to the affected space, then attack with the appropriate extinguisher, confirm extinguished, and finally ventilate carefully. Shutting off fuel and electrical removes the ignition source and fuel supply before attack.