What is the first action to take when a boiler is experiencing dry firing?

When a boiler is experiencing dry firing, the first action to take is to shut down the boiler. This is crucial because dry firing occurs when the boiler operates without sufficient water, which can lead to serious damage to the boiler itself, such as overheating and potential failure of its components. Shutting down the boiler prevents further damage and allows for safe assessment and correction of the issue, such as refilling the water supply and performing necessary checks for any underlying problems that may have led to the dry firing situation.

Addressing the other actions, opening the feedwater valve while the boiler is still running could introduce water into a potentially dangerous situation, as it may not be able to effectively handle a sudden influx of water without proper controls in place. Reducing pressure or increasing temperature would not be appropriate responses, as they could exacerbate the condition rather than remedy it. Understanding that immediate shutdown is essential to ensure safety and protect the integrity of the system is key in handling emergencies like dry firing.