Fire Emergencies & Prevention

Fire Emergencies

Fire Onboard

If there is a fire onboard your boat, it’s a serious event. First, you should stop and position the boat so the fire is downwind. Alert everyone to the presence of the fire and order everyone to put on lifejackets. If possible, try to turn off the fuel source to the fire.

The Fire Triangle

The fire triangle has three components: Fuel, Heat, and Oxygen. Remove one of the three components, and you will extinguish the fire.

Using a Fire Extinguisher

Grab the extinguishers and control the fire. To put out a fire, remember PASS:

1. Pull the pin;
2. Aim at the base of the fire
3. Squeeze the handle and
4. Sweep the extinguisher along the base of the fire.

Ensure you don’t “save some for later”. Use it all, even if you think the fire is out before you use it all.

Preventing Fires

To prevent a fire from occurring on your boat:

• Regularly inspect and maintain the boat’s engine and electrical system in order to prevent overheating and the potential for sparks that could lead to a fire.
• Ensure that the bilge and other lower areas of the boat are kept clean and free from any rubbish or debris. Fumes from fuels such as gasoline and propane are denser than air and tend to accumulate in these areas. A clean bilge reduces the risk of a fire.
• Exercise caution when refueling the boat. The majority of boat explosions and fires occur during or immediately after the refueling process. Avoid any sparks or open flames while refueling.
• Properly store flammable materials. Fuels, oils, and other substances that are flammable should be stored in designated areas that are well-ventilated and kept away from any sources of heat.
• Install and regularly maintain fire extinguishers. Read the instructions provided with your fire extinguishers. Regularly check the gauge on your fire extinguisher to ensure that it is adequately charged. Additionally, inspect the seals to ensure that they have not been tampered. After using a fire extinguisher, it must be recharged.
• Before every trip, turn dry chemical extinguishers upside down and gently tap it with a rubber mallet. This will help dislodge any clumped powder inside the extinguisher, making it more effective.