How can ARFF personnel detect a hot brake situation?

Detecting a hot brake situation is vital for the safety of both the aircraft and ground personnel. The presence of brown-colored smoke coming from the wheel assembly is a clear indicator of hot brakes overheating, as this smoke typically arises from the brake components that are excessively hot due to prolonged use or malfunction. This brown-colored smoke is often a result of the brake materials breaking down under extreme temperatures, signaling a potential failure if not addressed promptly.

While the other indicators such as the smell of burning rubber, excessive noise from the brakes, and visual inspections of brake components can provide some context or additional signs of issues, they may not be as definitive or immediate as observing the telltale brown smoke. The smoke provides a direct visual cue that the situation requires urgent attention and should be acted upon to prevent further complications, including potential fire hazards. Therefore, recognizing brown smoke is a key skill for ARFF personnel in identifying and responding to hot brake scenarios effectively.