2. Fire Protection. Within an ammunition and explosive storage area, whether permanent or
temporary, fire protection and posting of fire symbols is of primary importance. Fires in an
ammunition and explosive area can cause catastrophic damage in an extremely short time.
a. A fire plan is one of the first things an explosive storage area needs. The fire plan will include
the disposition of matches or other flame/spark producing devices. It specifies who can grant
authority to carry such devices, and how they will be carried. The plan specifies where smoking
areas will be located, when they may be used, and what type of extinguisher must be available
at each location. The plan tells what everyone is to do in the event of a fire. The fire plan
designates responsibilities of key individuals/alternates and organizations. Their responsibilities
are defined, and everyone knows exactly who does the following tasks:
(1) Who reports the fire.
(2) Who directs orderly evacuation of personnel.
(3) Who notifies nearby personnel of impending danger.
(4) Who initiates the means of extinguishing or controlling the fire.
(5) Who meets and advises fire fighters as to details of the fire.
b. Fire prevention in an ammunition storage area is the responsibility of all personnel who work in,
or enter the storage area. The storage area must be kept in a condition that will prevent fires
from starting, and to prevent fires from entering from other areas.
(1) Vegetation-grass, weeds, and undergrowth must be kept under control. By controlling the
growth of grass, weeds, and underbrush, the possible spread of fire is limited. Weed killer,
mowing, animal grazing, plowing, or cutting are methods used to control vegetation.
However, proper supervision of personnel is required when any method is used.
(2) Vegetation burning is not permitted within 50 feet of earth-covered magazines, nor within
200 feet of aboveground magazines or storage pads. All structure doors, windows, and
ventilators must be closed during burning.
(3) Fire breaks will be at least 50' wide, free of flammable material, and maintained around
aboveground magazines and storage pads.
(4) Dunnage will not be stacked any closer than 50' to magazines-never within the fire breaks.
(5) Diesel and gasoline powered vehicles operating closer than 25' to a structure or magazine
will be equipped with properly installed spark arresters.
(6) Heat producing equipment will not be used without a permit from the quality assurance,
safety or fire department. The permit will specify the location, time, duration, purpose, safety
precautions, fire-fighting equipment required, and operator's names.
c. Firefighting facilities are of immediate importance to personnel within the ASP. Fighting fires in
their beginning stages can prevent a major fire or mass detonation of ammunition stocks. Keep
in mind that personnel must not be exposed to the hazards of an imminent explosion. Fire-
fighting equipment will vary depending on the permanency of the facility, types of ammunition
stored, and availability of firefighting organizations.
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