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/.
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