Exploring the Benefits of a Marine Fire Extinguisher

Exploring marine fire extinguishers: The U.S. Coast Guard requires marine fire extinguishers on all kinds of recreational boats where a fire danger could be anticipated from the engines or fuel system. So, how do you what kind of and how many fire extinguishers one should carry?

Does any boat need a marine fire extinguisher? Yes, of course, the Coast Guard has requirements for fire extinguishers on boats with inboard engines and outboard boats with closed sections for storing portable or permanent tanks, permanently located fuel tanks, and restricted compartments or living spaces. So, what type of marine fire extinguisher one should buy? Coast Guard-approved extinguishers for boats ideally should be

·        hand-portable,

·        possess either B-I or B-II classification,

·        and must be offered with a mounting bracket.

Buy marine fire extinguishers only that have been approved by the Coast Guard and certified by an independent testing agency, such as Western Fire & Safety. However, marking on extinguishers can be confusing. For example, one extinguisher can be approved for various types of fires (A, B, or C). In that case, it’s crucial to know that an extinguisher stamped as  “Type A, Size II; Type B; C, Size I” is marked as a required Type B-I extinguisher.

Hand-portable extinguishers are available in two different sizes. Moreover, this size reflects the amount of chemical an extinguisher has:

·        Size I extinguishers must have a minimum of 2 pounds of dry chemicals.

·        Size II extinguishers must have at least 10 pounds of dry chemicals.

How many marine fire extinguishers do we need? The adequate number of portable extinguishers you’re required to keep depends on your boat’s length. However, if you have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved fixed fire extinguishing system positioned in your boat’s engine compartment, you can reduce the demanded number of extinguishers

How to use a marine fire extinguisher? To control a fire, you want to stop it while it’s still small. In addition, you can increase your possibilities of success by including more than the required number of extinguishers onboard.

Also never test a marine fire extinguisher by moderately discharging it. It could leak and become unavailable. Always ensure to recharge or replace moderately discharged extinguishers. And lastly, buy only Coast Guard-approved extinguishers specially designed for marine use. Western Fire & Safety Inc. provides you with the top quality and completely reconditioned Marine Fire Extinguishers. Call them at (206) 782-7825. https://www.westernfireandsafety.com/.