If you abandon a vessel due to an oil fire, what is the recommended method to keep yourself safe?

When dealing with an oil fire on a vessel, safety is the top priority, and understanding the nature of such fires is crucial. Covering your eyes with one hand can help protect your vision from the intense heat and blinding light that can occur during an oil fire. This is particularly important because maintaining vision is necessary to assess the situation and find a safe escape route. Oil fires produce large amounts of smoke and can create very bright flames, which can easily disorient individuals trying to evacuate.

While options related to protective gear and getting to higher ground may seem like practical approaches in other types of emergencies, in the case of oil fires, the priority is rapid evacuation and protecting oneself from immediate hazards. Running away from the fire may expose you to the flames and smoke, making it less effective than shielding your eyes while assessing your exit. Thus, covering your eyes helps to minimize visibility impairment and allows for safer navigation away from the danger.