The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) recently conducted first responder training at the fire department in Papillion, Neb., just a few miles from the location where more than 400 propane autogas school buses are housed. Photos and information provided by PERC.
PHOTOS: First responders train on propane school buses
Papillion, Neb., fire and rescue personnel discuss propane autogas school bus features during a training session on March 18. Propane autogas vehicles come equipped with decal labeling that helps first responders identify that the vehicle operates on an alternative fuel.
First responders took turns examining the propane autogas fuel tank on one of the buses that Student Transportation of America runs for Omaha Public Schools. Propane officials say that autogas fuel tanks are 20 times more puncture resistant than standard gasoline tanks.
Part of the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) safety training covered the identification of propane-autogas-powered vehicle and bus components, including the fuel tank — which is located in the front-end of the bus, just as with a conventionally fueled bus — and manual safety shutoff valves.
Refueling propane autogas school buses is similar to refueling with gasoline or diesel. The main difference is that the refueling nozzle for propane autogas must be threaded into the tank, which prevents leaks and spillage. Additionally, operators must wear gloves and safety goggles when refueling.
Last fall, more than 400 Blue Bird Vision Type C propane autogas school buses equipped with ROUSH CleanTech fuel systems were deployed to transport Omaha Public Schools students. The order was the single largest to-date for Blue Bird and Student Transportation Inc.
Stuart Flatow, PERC vice president of safety and training, presented information on propane autogas fuel properties, how to identify vehicles and components, and how to assess and approach accidents with propane-autogas-powered vehicles.