Fire
aboard a boat can be a terrifying experience. A person may only
have a split second to act to save themselves and all passengers.
The importance of having fully charged fire extinguishers on hand
, properly mounted and readily accessible is vital.
Most boat fires can be put out rapidly if you act immediately. Do not hesitate. If a fire starts, grab the extinguisher, activate it and direct it at the base of the flames. Use short bursts and sweep it from side to side. Do not wait until a fire starts to read the directions on the label. Take the time to make sure that you and those who boat with you regularly know and understand exactly how to use the fire extinguisher.
There are several preventable measures to take in order to avoid most boat fires:
If and when a fire does break out on board your boat, never use
water on fires started electrically, by gasoline, oil, or grease.
Water will spread a gasoline fire and since water is a conductor
of electricity, you may receive a damaging shock from an electrical
fire. Water should only be used to extinguish burning wood, mattresses,
rags, rubbish, and alcohol. When extinguishing the fire, make
sure it is completely out. If not, it may smolder for a long while
and possibly start again. If possible, soak burning materials
over the downwind side of the boat. Also remember to avoid littering
the waterways by removing any debris after the emergency is over.
Follow these steps if fire breaks out while you are underway in order to prevent the fire from spreading to other parts of the boat:
Always remember not to panic. Many boats burn to the water line
because people jump overboard without assessing the situation
first. If you realize that the fire cannot be put out with the
fire extinguisher, put on your life jacket and exit the boat upwind
of the burning craft. Use a radio, cellular phone, or visual distress
signals to gain assistance. Practice emergency procedures often
and comprehensively. Be sure everyone onboard knows how to use
the fire extinghuisers, V.H.F. radio and flares.
Remember - the majority of boat fires can be avoided by proper preventative maintenance.