In a situation of extreme cold and no water showing in the gauge glass, what is the appropriate action?

In a situation of extreme cold and a lack of visible water in the gauge glass, the prudent action is to turn off the boiler immediately. This response is crucial for several reasons. First, without water, the boiler is at risk of overheating, which can lead to tube failure or an explosion. The water in the boiler serves not only to produce steam but also to absorb heat and maintain safe operating temperatures.

When no water is visible in the gauge glass, it indicates that the water level may be dangerously low. Continuing to fire the boiler or attempting to produce steam could result in catastrophic failures, as excessive heat without sufficient water would apply severe stress on the boiler components. Therefore, prioritizing safety by shutting down the boiler prevents the potential for accidents and maintains structural integrity.

Checking the water level manually may seem like a reasonable step, but in extreme cold conditions, the best course of action is to prioritize safety and turn off the boiler to avoid any risk of harm. Similarly, increasing the fire to produce steam is not advisable, as it could exacerbate the situation and lead to boiler damage or failure. Choosing to turn off the boiler is therefore the correct action to safeguard both equipment and personnel in this scenario.