BOATsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Module 06 - Other Water Activities Emergency Preparation

Fighting a Fire

Fire emergencies can be caused by a number of factors, including:

Engine malfunctions;
A fire in the galley;
Or, the insufficient ventilation of an enclosed engine compartment.

If a fire or explosion occurs on your boat, you can lessen the severity of the emergency by being properly prepared for it. Prepare by doing the following:

Making sure you have the mandatory fire-fighting equipment on board your boat.
Maintaining your fire-fighting equipment regularly to make sure it’s in good working order.
Placing your fire extinguisher in a readily accessible location.
Ensuring you and your passengers will be able to respond quickly and efficiently.