Military Vehicle Fire Prevention: A Guide

From armoured tanks to transport carriers, military vehicles operate in harsh environments, with exposure to all kinds of shocks, vibrations, and extreme temperatures. The fire risks are high, so protection must be too. Fires in military vehicles don’t only put machines and personnel at risk, but downtime caused by malfunctions or breakdowns can also incur serious costs and disruption to schedules.

 

In this guide, we’ll explore essential tips and strategies for military vehicle fire prevention.

 

Protecting military vehicles from fire

 

Regular maintenance and inspection

Consistent inspections and maintenance form the foundation of effective fire prevention in military vehicles. Before each deployment, thorough vehicle maintenance checks are required to ensure all components are in working order. Particular attention should be paid to:

 

  • Fuel lines and tanks: Ensure there are no leaks or loose connections.
  • Electrical systems: Check for faulty wiring, frayed cables, or exposed wires that could spark and ignite flammable materials.
  • Exhaust systems: Make sure the exhaust system is in good condition and not prone to overheating or igniting nearby materials.
  • Engine components: Inspect the engine for signs of oil or fuel leaks that could lead to a fire hazard.
  • Fire suppression systems: Verify that fire suppression systems are appropriate for the machine type and correctly serviced in line with their operational requirements.

 

Proper stowage of ammunition and fuel

Proper stowage and handling of ammunition and fuel is crucial to prevent fires. However, there are ways to mitigate the risks of these coming into contact with ignition sources:

 

  • Ammunition: Store ammunition in designated compartments away from the crew compartment and the engine bay. Ensure it is securely stowed and protected from potential impacts or sparks.
  • Fuel: Military vehicles should have robust fuel storage and delivery systems. Regularly check for fuel leaks and maintain proper ventilation in fuel compartments to prevent the buildup of flammable vapours.

 

Education and training

Comprehensive training of military vehicle crews is vital for fire prevention. Crew members should be educated on fire safety procedures, including:

 

  • Recognising the signs of a potential fire.
  • Using fire suppression equipment effectively.
  • Evacuation procedures in the event of a fire.
  • Emergency shutdown procedures to prevent fuel and electrical systems from exacerbating a fire.

 

Fire suppression systems

Installing effective fire suppression systems can significantly enhance fire prevention efforts.  Our vehicle fire suppression systems can automatically detect and suppress a fire in its initial stages, before it flames, minimising damage to the military vehicle.

 

Whether it’s protection for an armoured vehicle or critical electrical equipment, our automatic fire suppression systems are designed to cover a range of military applications. We use a variety of suppression agents, as well as fire detection and activation technologies to provide reliable, bespoke solutions for every type of equipment and environment. Finally, regular servicing and maintenance of these systems are essential to ensure they function correctly when needed, and that downtime is minimised in the event of an emergency.

 

Fire-resistant materials and design

Designing military vehicles with fire-resistant materials can reduce the risk of fires and limit their spread. These materials can include fire-resistant coatings, insulation, and fireproof seals for compartments containing sensitive equipment.

 

 

Military vehicle fire prevention is a critical aspect of ensuring the safety of both the vehicle and its crew. Regular maintenance, proper stowage of ammunition and fuel, education and training, effective fire suppression systems, and the use of fire-resistant materials all play key roles in reducing the risk of fires in military vehicles. By implementing these strategies, armed forces can enhance their operational readiness and protect the lives of their personnel in the field.

 

To learn more about how Ardent helps clients prevent fires, read our case studies, sign up to our newsletter, or get in touch for more information.