How should personnel respond to an overheated wheel/tire?

The correct course of action for personnel in response to an overheated wheel or tire is to signal the pilot and clear the area. This is essential for ensuring the safety of both personnel and the aircraft. An overheated wheel or tire presents a significant risk of fire or explosion, and immediate action is necessary to mitigate these dangers. By signaling the pilot, you alert them to a potentially hazardous situation, allowing them to take appropriate measures to ensure the aircraft is safely managed.

Clearing the area is also crucial because it removes any non-essential personnel from a potentially dangerous situation, reducing the risk of injuries. Maintaining a safe distance from the overheated component ensures that the impact of any ignition or explosion is minimized.

While approaching from the side may seem cautious, it is still risky to be near a wheel or tire that is exhibiting signs of overheating without taking the necessary precautions. Using a fire extinguisher might be appropriate in some situations, but it's important to first assess the immediate area for safety rather than putting oneself at risk. Covering the wheel or tire with a blanket does not address the underlying danger of overheating and could potentially exacerbate the situation. Therefore, signaling the pilot and evacuating the area represents the safest and most effective emergency response.