If no rescue is necessary and water is scarce for a liquid propane gas tanker fire, what is the appropriate action for firefighters?

In situations involving a liquid propane gas (LPG) tanker fire, the primary concern is safety, both for firefighting personnel and the surrounding environment. If no rescue is necessary and water is scarce, withdrawing from the area is the most prudent action. This decision minimizes the risk to firefighters, as LPG fires can lead to explosions or severe fire spread due to the volatile nature of propane.

Maintaining a safe distance allows firefighters to monitor the situation without risking exposure to potential hazards. Approaching the fire with tactics that require extensive water application or pumps could prove ineffective given the scarcity of water and may even lead to engaging in dangerous proximity to the fire.

Furthermore, water applications like wide fog nozzles are intended to cool down burning materials or reduce flame spread. However, they may not be effective in extinguishing an LPG fire, especially if there is insufficient water available. Given these considerations, prioritizing safety with a strategic withdrawal is demonstrated as the most appropriate response in this scenario.