Question

Train operators are cautioned not to use water to extinguish fire near the third rail. The BEST reason for this rule is that water coming into contact with the third rail ______.

Answer 1

Train operators should not use water to extinguish fires near the third rail because water conducts electricity, which could lead to electric shock hazards or worsen the fire.

Step-by-step explanation:

Train operators are cautioned against using water to extinguish fires near the third rail because the third rail carries a high voltage electrical current, which powers the train. Water is a good conductor of electricity, so if it comes into contact with the third rail, it can lead to the propagation of electrical current. This can cause electric shock hazards or even create further fire situations when attempting to extinguish a fire.

Moreover, applying water can result in a conductive path being created for the electricity, which can endanger the lives of the train operators, firefighters, and any bystanders due to the possibility of electrocution. Therefore, when dealing with fires near electrified equipment, such as the third rail, fire extinguishers with non-conductive extinguishing agents should be used instead.