There are many reasons to exercise special lengths of caution when on a boat, but the biggest is that there is little room for error. If a fire breaks out when you are away from the port, it can become a deadly situation in a heartbeat. Below are a few fire safety tips for boaters that will help keep you and your crew protected.
Maintain Workable Fire Extinguishers
You can have all the fire extinguishers you want on board, but if they are not charged and ready to go, they are useless. Make sure you upkeep the extinguishers and have them positioned in areas that are easy to get to. Keep them close to the galley and engine compartment. These are the most likely spots to see a fire start. Find out what the specific requirements are for your size boat from the US Coast Guard and stay in compliance.
Install Smoke Detectors
The space on the roomiest boat is limited. You have very little time from smelling smoke to complete chaos and flames. A person can quickly find themselves losing consciousness from smoke inhalation. Place a smoke detector in the sleeping areas so that you will be awoken and able to get moving before the smoke gets too bad.
Never Use Gas Operated Camping Appliances On Board
Boats that have no galley are tempting spots to fire up a gas camp cookstove and brew some coffee, but this is a real hazard that can result in a fire. Leave the campfires to land. Plan ahead and bring coffee in a thermos, or large mug.
Keep Ignition Sources Away From Fuel
Always remember that the fumes from fuel that operates the boat are highly flammable. If you smoke, do so well away from the engine and fuel tanks. Do not use propane operated heaters on board.
Practice Fire Drills
Make sure everyone that boards your boat on a regular basis understands basic fire safety. Practice emergency drills and teach everyone how to use the extinguishers. Stick with fire safety rules to avoid any problems out on the water. Getting slack one time might be all it takes for an incident to happen.
Check out the great selection of boat fire extinguishers and fire safety equipment with boat parts specialists like MMI Marine today!
