JATO/rocket fires: How should you approach?

• A. Around rockets at 45° with caution
• B. Directly at the rocket
• C. From above the rocket
• D. Move in a straight line past the rocket

Answer: (A)

Approach from the side at about a 45-degree angle with caution. The main hazard with JATO rockets is the intense, directed exhaust and potential backblast. Coming in obliquely keeps you out of the rocket’s direct plume and lets you reach the base of the fire while maintaining an easy retreat path if the situation shifts. A direct approach would put you in the line of the jet exhaust or debris, and moving straight past the rocket would expose you to heat, flame, or flying debris in the rocket’s immediate path. Approaching from above generally doesn’t reduce the risk as effectively, since heat and flames can extend downward toward you. So the oblique, side approach offers the best balance between access to the fire and personal safety.