Part of our efforts at preservation is maintaining the knowledge and skills of operating a steam locomotive. This is not an easy task. In July 2026 Robby Peartree observed social media video where a locomotive equipped to burn oil lost the fire and then an attempt was made to relite the locomotive off of the firebox brickwork. A significant fireball was then captured on video as a result of this decision. Reports indicate that no one was hurt from the firebox explosion. Unfortunately there is some social media commentary stating that this situation is “normal”. It is important to state that both the Atichison, Topeka, & Santa Fe and the Southern Pacific in their instructions to enginemen spefically expressed the reasons for not using hot brick to relite a locomotive. It is imparative that all of us continue to increase our knowedge and skill level everyday we work around railroad equipment.

1. Southern Pacific Lines Rules and Information on the Handling of Oil Burning Locomotives June 1928

2. Southern Pacific Company Rules and Information for the Firing and Handling of Locomotives Effective January 1, 1947

3. Southern Pacific Company (Pacific Lines) Safety Rules for the Guidance of Employes in Train, Engine and Yard Service Effective February 1, 1942

4. Southern Pacific Company (Pacific Lines) Safety Rules Governing Employes in Train, Engine and Yard Service Effective February 15, 1949

More material will be scanned in the future.