Boats sometimes catch fire and it is important to have the proper safety equipment on hand in case a boat fire occurs. A boat can go up in flames as quickly as 7 seconds per hour, so make sure to have the correct safety gear like boat fire extinguisher at all times.
Boat fire extinguisher is classified by a number as well as a letter.
The letter indicates the type of fire it is meant to extinguish (A or B), while the numerals I through IV indicate the extinguisher’s size. The number of extinguishers used will determine the size. Sizes I, II and IV can be carried by hand, while sizes III, IV and V are semi-portable.
A Class A extinguisher is best used to extinguish a cooking fire. You can put out a cooking fire with water or chemical foam, but it is not advised to use water to put out non-cooking fires.
Boiling is possible with Class B fires. They are flammable liquids such as gasoline, diesel, gasoline, grease, gasoline, and diesel. The best extinguishing agents for a B flame are carbon dioxide, dry chemical, or an aqueous foam-forming mousse (AFFF).
A charge from energized electrical equipment can cause Class-C fires. If water-based extinguishing agents are used, they can cause shock or electrocute. It is essential to switch off electricity when fighting a Class C fire. It will change the status of a Class C fire to one that is either a Class A or B. Carbon dioxide is the best agent for extinguishing fires. Dry chemical can also be used.
Every boat should have at minimum one extinguisher capable of putting out any kind of fire (ABC extinguisher). All extinguishers used on boats must be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and rated for marine use. A minimum of one B-1 extinguisher must be on a boat less than 26 feet long. Boats between 26 and 40 feet should have no more than two. Boats over 40 feet must have at least one B-1 extinguisher, but not more than two.
Make sure you carefully read the instructions after purchasing your extinguisher. You might be amazed at the capabilities of your extinguisher. While you can charge an older extinguisher, it is best to keep it safe. We recommend having at least one aboard. One in each stateroom, one at the galley and one in your cockpit.
What to do if a boat catches fire ?
If you remove one of the three essential elements that a fire needs — heat, oxygen, and fuel — it will go out. You can mix the Bilge with this, leaving nothing to ignite other than a spark from an object or electric wire touching them at just enough velocity to not cause a balance shift. This is essential in fighting fires. Every time you use yours, make sure it is fully charged and has been cleaned regularly.
What type of fire extinguisher is good for a boat?
Use a Class C fire extinguisher. Marine-rated Class C fire extinguishers are required for most boats, as gasoline fires are the most common type. The extinguisher’s ability to put out a fire is indicated by the number preceding the B (e.g. a 5-B or 20B extinguisher).
