March 15, 2008 — This oil spill simulation exercise was done by Fire & Rescue Academy of Malaysia (FRAM) trainees.
Some of the fuel used were a mix of diesel, petrol, and kerosene. The temperature was so hot and I could feel the heat even at a 50 metre distance. To the trainees holding the nozzle, they could see flames in front of their very eyes separated only with tiny droplets of water shield that came from high-pressured water pumps. With full Dragger face masks, helmets, transparent visor, protective clothing and rubber boots, they could still feel the heat to their skin. The aim is not to extinguish fire but to close the central valve and avoiding the flammable liquid from coming out. This eventually prevents fire altogether.
The team move in different groups with right and left flank containing ground flame from escaping and spraying water to both centre attacking groups to cool their body temperature. The centre attacking groups move synchronuously to the orders of commander, 'siegeing' the flames and revealing the key valve situated at the centre.
