Munitions Firefighting Practice Exam

Which statement is TRUE regarding fire hazards from certain radioactive materials?

1. If americium is on fire, keep upwind and avoid dust

2. Tritium is harmless when exposed to flame

3. Uranium gives off harmless fumes in a fire

4. All radioactive materials are safe during fires

The correct answer is: If americium is on fire, keep upwind and avoid dust

The statement that is true regarding fire hazards from certain radioactive materials is that if americium is on fire, one should keep upwind and avoid dust. This is accurate because americium can generate harmful particles when it burns, potentially contaminating the air and posing health risks to those nearby. Maintaining a position upwind helps to minimize inhalation of any dust that may be produced. In contrast, other statements are not reflective of the potential hazards associated with radioactive materials. Tritium, while having a lower risk level compared to other isotopes, can still pose risks depending on the context and exposure; therefore, it is not entirely harmless when exposed to fire. Uranium does release fumes in a fire situation, and these can be hazardous, contradicting the idea that it gives off harmless fumes. Lastly, the blanket statement that all radioactive materials are safe during fires is false; different radioactive materials can behave differently in fire conditions, and many present significant risks when combustion occurs.