Submitted by Steve Winicker.
LAST WEEKENDS SHOP ACTIVITY
Last weekend we were able to do most of the work needed to get the 765 ready for the upcoming trips. The boiler was washed out, the boiler jacket cleaned, the rods cleaned and treated with rust proofing, and the ashes dumped from the firebox and ashpan.
UPCOMING ACTIVITIES
Still needed is the repair of the blower control rod and a lube line to the trailing truck. Also needed to finish the boiler wash is running the turbine in the arch tubes and rattling the syphons. Since we are so far along in doing a boiler wash, we may just finish out the requirements to give us a bit of leeway if the ferry move on NS back to Casad does not go as planned. Also needed is the washing of the cab and tender prior to the upcoming trips.
Other Issues
Jerrad informs me that someone is shutting off the drains in the air system. These have been left partially open to bleed out water that is released from the compressed air. In order to facilitate sand blasting and painting which need dry air the system must be drained of moisture. If you shut the various drains for any reason reopen them to get rid of water from the system. Better yet leave them open and keep the system dry.
SAFETY SENSE
Some things are important enough to need repeating. Earlier this year during the Society’s Annual Training session you were given the proper instructions and demonstrations on how to properly use a portable fire extinguisher.
Be sure to remember the PASS operating technique for portable fire extinguishers. PASS stands for….
- P – Pull the pin. Pulling the pin unlocks the operating lever so you can discharge the extinguisher. Stand, facing the fire, at least 6 to 8 feet from the fire.
- A – Aim low, pointing the extinguisher nozzle or hose at the base of the fire.
- S – Squeeze the lever below the handle to discharge the contents of the extinguisher. When you release the lever, the discharge will stop.
- S – Moving carefully toward the fire, keep the extinguisher aimed at the base of the fire and sweep from side to side until the flames appear to be out.
Watch the area. Do not turn your back to the fire location for it may reignite. Back away from the extinguished fire location If the fire starts up again, repeat the PASS technique.
