FIRE INVESTIGATIONS
WHY MOTORCOACHES
MAY BURN
(A MECHANICAL ANALYSIS)
Christopher W. Ferrone
President, Americoach Systems, Inc.
Chicago, IL
Cell: 773.858.4941 • Tel: 800.621.4153 • Email: cwferrone@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
In the wake of the Wilmer, Texas fire, which occurred during
the Hurricane Rita evacuation, motorcoach fires have come
to the forefront of the media. Are motorcoaches catching on
fire now more than before? What could possibly explain such
a phenomenon?
The purpose of this paper, through mechanical analysis
and accident reconstruction, is to inform operators of the fire
hazards which may be present on a typical motorcoach, tran-
sit or school bus.
Once the potential hazards are identified, the individual
components’ care and maintenance can be monitored to pre-
vent or limit the occurrence of a fire. The express purpose of
this effort is to minimize fires on such passenger vehicles.
INTRODUCTION
Motorcoaches are expensive and carry valuable cargo – peo-
ple. Motorcoaches must be understood and maintained with
fire prevention in mind.
A fire can occur on a motorcoach, transit or school bus for
a variety of reasons. Unlike an automobile or even a large
truck, a motorcoach is a more sophisticated vehicle with
more systems and even greater complexity.
1
The author has
investigated motorcoach fires for more than 20 years.
However, as a result of the fire in Wilmer Texas, it was decid-
ed that this analytical process should be written to assist
operators in the prevention of future fires.
During the past two decades the author has investigated
numerous motorcoach fires. While analyzing the cause and
origin of these fires a collection of data has shown a consis-
tent pattern.
As simple as it appears, if the vehicle is in motion certain
items are valid as possible causes. Likewise, if the vehicle is
stationary with the engine on or off other items become
potential causes. In either case, the situation is dangerous and
costly in both human life and property (Photo 1).
The more common causes discussed here are
not
ranked
in order of likelihood. The operational profile and vehicle
history can help determine which of these trouble spots need
SPECIAL REPORT TO CVSA
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