OPERATION UNDER RAINY OR HUMID CONDITIONS.

TM 5-4210-224-14&P

2-31. OPERATION UNDER RAINY OR HUMID CONDITIONS.

When operating under rainy or humid conditions, the high humidity causes rusting and corrosive action on exposed

metal surfaces. Coat all exposed metal surfaces with engine oil or appropriate protective coating. Keep the fuel

tank as full as possible to eliminate condensation.

2-32. OPERATION IN SALT WATER AREAS.

a. General. When operating in salt water areas, deterioration and corrosion of exposed metal surfaces is greatly

accelerated. Coat all exposed metal surfaces with engine oil. When the fire truck has been partially immersed

or sprayed with salt water, wash down the fire truck thoroughly with fresh water.

b. Pumping Salt Water. Do not use salt water except in case of an extreme emergency. At the earliest

opportunity after pumping salt water, flush the fire pump and piping thoroughly with fresh water. After flushing,

drain the fire pump in accordance with paragraph 2-25.

2-33. OPERATION IN SNOW.

Operating in snow presents special problemsdue to snow collecting and freezing on metal surfaces. At the earliest

opportunity, remove snow from top of pump compartment, equipment compartments, hose beds, and rear step.

2-34. OPERATION IN MUD.

When operating in mud, particular attention must be paid to the overall cleanliness of the fire truck. At the earliest

opportunity, wash the fire truck and remove the mud.

2-35. OPERATION AT HIGH ALTITUDES.

CAUTION

Due to low atmospheric pressure, engine horsepower decreases about 3 percent for every 1,000

feet (304.8m) increase in altitude above sea level. This loss in engine horsepower may result in

a loss of pump efficiency. To compensate for this loss in engine horsepower, it may be

necessary to operate the fire pump at greater rpm's than when operating under normal

conditions.

Operation at high altitudes presents special problems due to lower atmospheric pressure and a wide difference in

temperatures. Protect the fire truck at all times from the lowest anticipated temperature.

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