TM 55-1930-209-14&P-17
d.
Smother engine fires by leaving engine hatch tightly closed. Use firefighting chemicals through air intakes on
each side or smother fire by closing air intakes. Use blankets, tars, cushions, etc., to completely close air intakes.
NOTE
Portable, dry powder fire extinguisher onboard (10 pound
capacity) is effective against fires involving fuel oil, electrical
wiring and equipment, and plastics.
e.
Carry extinguisher to upwind side of fire, if possible. Pull safety pin, aim nozzle at base of fire, preferably on
upwind side, and pull trigger. If chemical is to be effective, it must not be blown away by the wind.
f.
After extinguishing fire, examine onboard electrical and mechanical systems for possible damage. If towing is
necessary, proceed in accordance with paragraph 2-15.2.
2-14.4 Running aground prevention. Before maneuvering or operating in an area, study charts and know depths and
possible underwater obstacles. In unknown waters, use depthfinder and proceed at idle speed with forward lookouts. If
possible, leave outboard trim switch in TRIM range so reverse can be engaged to stop and prevent grounding or striking
underwater obstacles.
2-14.5 Recovery procedures when aground
a.
Send a distress signal via radio, flares, or horn.
b.
Make sure all persons onboard are wearing lifevests.
c.
Check for possible persons overboard. Begin rescue operations.
d.
Check for possible personal injury due to sudden stop. Render first aid if necessary. If radio contact is available,
notify rescuing effort of personal injuries.
e.
Check hull around outboard drive for cracks, splits, bent metal, and leaks. Check both outside of hull and inside
engine compartment.
f.
If possible, raise outboard drive and examine casing for cracks, and bent or broken metal. Check propeller for
bent or broken blades. If possible, lower outboard drive and check if operational.
g.
Check other portions of hull for damage and leaks.
h.
Make sure bilge pumps are ON.
i.
If hull does not leak and engine/outboard drive operates, attempt to back off grounding. If this is possible, check
for leaks as boat comes clear of grounding.
j.
Plug and control leaks in the hull. Use cushions, blankets, jackets, or other material to plug holes or cracks.
WARNING
Workboat has flotation foam in forward compartment, under cabin
floor, and on outside of engine compartment. However, foam has
not been tested and may not be sufficient to prevent boat from
sinking.
2-15 Operations under unusual conditions
2-15.1 General. Several unusual conditions may occur in small craft operations. Towing another boat or being towed by
another boat are the most common.
2-15.2 Being towed by another boat
a.
Discuss towing procedures with operator of the towing boat and establish a communications system, preferably
two-way voice radio, between boats.
b.
If possible, make a towing bridle by using heavy line at least 30 feet long. Fashion a loop in the middle and fasten
each end to one of the forward bitts. Attach bridle to bitts so that it can be quickly and easily disconnected.
Secure towing line to loop in middle of this emergency-towing bridle.
2-21
