Colorado CDL Practice Test

Which of the following is a potential fire cause related to cargo?

1. Flammable cargo

2. Heavy cargo shifts

3. Excessive load weight

4. Improper loading techniques

The correct answer is: Flammable cargo

Flammable cargo is a potential fire cause related to cargo because it can ignite and contribute to a fire hazard under certain conditions. When transporting materials, it's essential to be aware of the nature of the cargo, as flammable substances can easily catch fire if exposed to heat, sparks, or open flames. Proper handling and storage of such cargo are critical to prevent accidents that could lead to fires during transport. Heavy cargo shifts and excessive load weight, while they can create significant hazards related to vehicle control and stability, do not inherently lead to fire incidents. Improper loading techniques may indeed lead to instability and risk of cargo shifting, which could cause an accident, but it is primarily the type of cargo itself—if it is flammable—that poses a direct risk of fire. Understanding the properties of the cargo being transported is fundamental to ensuring safety on the road.