How to Extinguish an Exploding Forklift Battery Fire

Many forklifts are powered by a very large and very heavy industrial battery. Such a battery gives off fumes that are extremely hazardous and very flammable. For this reason there should never be any smoking or open flames allowed near the forklifts. In the event of a fire or explosion involving a forklift battery, it is vital to remain calm, evaluate the situation and concentrate on what needs to happen to prevent further danger.

Things You'll Need

• Fire extinguisher
• Phone

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Instructions

• 1

  Step away from the area of the fire and evaluate the situation and what resources you have available to you. Exit the area if you fighting the fire will compromise your ability to exit the area safely. Immediately phone for help, or instruct someone to dial 9-1-1 to summon the fire department. Retrieve the nearest fire extinguisher without moving into the smoke from the fire. Do not put water on the fire; this could cause the acid in the battery to spread further, resulting in a larger fire to contain. Keep the fire extinguisher in front of you as you approach the fire, but remain low to avoid inhaling any of the smoke or fumes from the fire.

• 2

  Pull the pin on the fire extinguisher to free up the handle. Aim at the base of the flames. Squeeze the handle to activate the extinguisher. Sweep the extinguisher from side to side in short movements as you attempt to push the fire back and contain it. Remember the acronym P.A.S.S.: Pull the pin, aim the extinguisher, squeeze the handle, sweep side to side. Depending on the size of the fire extinguisher you will have a very limited supply of chemical to fight the fire. Attempt to contain the fire into a small area, then extinguish it.

• 3

  Stay clear of the smoke, and if the situation becomes more hazardous evacuate the area. If it is a large fire it may be necessary to use multiple extinguishers to contain it. Fighting the fire will also be far more difficult if the battery is mounted in a forklift as opposed to sitting beside a charger. While there will be less oxygen reaching the fire, it will be harder for you to get the chemical on the flames. Direct others who may be assisting you and coordinate the fight, spraying the fire from all sides at once.

• 4

  Continue to spray the area even when there are no longer visible flames. If the fire extinguisher is exhausted, retrieve another and stand watch until the fire department arrives. Immediately attack any area that flares up or appears as if it could. Better to err on the side of caution rather than allow the fire to regain momentum. Keep all other people clear of the area and if possible out of the building to prevent any possible problem from inhaling the smoke or fumes. If at any time you feel you are being overcome by the smoke, evacuate to fresh air and do not re-enter the structure.