When abandoning a MODU, why should you avoid entering the water on the leeward side if there is burning oil on the water?

When abandoning a MODU, why should you avoid entering the water on the leeward side if there is burning oil on the water?

• A. Burning oil on the water creates a lethal hazard, and you should enter the water on the side away from the fire.
• B. Enter on the leeward side to avoid wind
• C. Leeward side is safer due to wind
• D. It doesn't matter which side you enter from

Answer: (A)

When abandoning a MODU with burning oil on the water, the priority is to avoid exposure to flames and burning oil. Burning oil on the surface creates a lethal hazard: heat and radiant flame can ignite clothing, oil droplets or vapors can cause burns or inhalation injuries, and the slick can spread or reignite. The wind tends to push the burning oil and its vapors along the water, so the leeward side (the downwind side) is where you’re most likely to encounter burning oil and heat. Entering the water on the side away from the fire reduces the chance of contact with flames and burning oil, improving safety as you abandon the area.

When abandoning a MODU with burning oil on the water, the priority is to avoid exposure to flames and burning oil. Burning oil on the surface creates a lethal hazard: heat and radiant flame can ignite clothing, oil droplets or vapors can cause burns or inhalation injuries, and the slick can spread or reignite. The wind tends to push the burning oil and its vapors along the water, so the leeward side (the downwind side) is where you’re most likely to encounter burning oil and heat. Entering the water on the side away from the fire reduces the chance of contact with flames and burning oil, improving safety as you abandon the area.