What are the key fueling safety distances and extinguisher rules?

• A. Deactivate radar/electronics within 10 ft; no open flames within 50 ft; keep at least a 20-B extinguisher accessible/upwind.
• B. Deactivate radar within 50 ft; no smoking within 10 ft; 4-A extinguisher.
• C. Keep extinguisher within 5 ft; no restrictions on radar.
• D. All fueling avoided near runways; use water only.

Answer: (A)

Fueling safety hinges on preventing ignition sources from being present where fuel vapors could ignite and ensuring you can suppress a start of fire quickly. The best approach means isolating potential spark sources, such as radar or other electronics, from the fueling area so they can’t spark near vapors. It also requires keeping any flames or heat sources well clear of the fueling zone to minimize ignition risk. Having a Class B fire extinguisher readily accessible and placed upwind protects the operator by providing immediate suppression capability without exposing them to rising vapors or flames. Water-based suppression is not appropriate for hydrocarbon fuels and can spread the fire, and other options that misstate ignition-control steps or extinguisher types don’t provide adequate protection for fuel fires.