Boat operators must know how to minimise the risk of fire onboard. Periodical and pre-start checks, operating practices, the right fire equipment and knowing how to use it correctly assist ‘boaties’ to remain safe and enjoy their time on the water. Here’s our ‘hot tips’ to help you keep your boat and loved ones’ fire safe.
Common causes of fire on boats:
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Smoking below decks
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Galley cookers
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Accumulation of gas in the bilges
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Faulty and aged wiring, overload, arcing
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Petrol/ flammable vapour in engine bay
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Flammable paints and solvents
Hot tips for on-board fire prevention
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You and your passengers should understand the vessel and its capabilities
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The wind, waves and sun multiply the effects of alcohol, staying under 0.05 reduces risk
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Flammable vapours are heavier than air and accumulate in the lower parts of the vessel, ventilate the vessel before starting the motor
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To ventilate flammable vapours and gas, open hatches, head downwind to allow fresh air into cabin areas and pump the bilges
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Store gas cylinders in ventilated spaces
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Check cylinders are ‘in test’ and fittings and tubing have no leaks
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Stow flammable liquids in well secured, upright containers in lockers that vent outboard
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Regularly inspect all fuel lines and the exhaust system for leakages
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When refuelling, isolate ignition sources and allow motors to cool off
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Maintain electrical equipment (a significant cause of fires on vessels) and do not operate any electrical switches or equipment if flammable vapours are present.
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Battery compartments should be ventilated as the gases produced are explosive
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Have electrical wiring checked regularly
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Working smoke alarms save lives. Install them near sleeping areas, away from fumes
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Fit working gas detectors in areas of potential gas leak and accumulation
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Portable fire extinguishers are designed for small fires, know how to use them and the types of fire it is suitable for
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Fire extinguishers are fitted in easy to access locations near an exit point or controls
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Fire extinguishers are maintained and in date (no older then 5 years)
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A fire blanket is stowed near the galley is a must
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Wireless automatic fire Suppression Stickers fitted to electrical, battery and fuel compartments are a first line of defence and can limit spread of fire
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Know the ‘fire escape plan’ for your vessel. It must account for everyone on board, whether moored or at sea.
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Never leave naked cooker flames and frying pans unattended
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If appliances are not in use gas cylinders are turned off.
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Smoking below decks should be avoided
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Consider installing an automatic suppression system (like the MiFire Sentry)
