Fire safety is a crucial aspect
of boating, and marine fire extinguishers are essential for protecting lives
and property. The U.S. Coast Guard mandates that recreational boats must carry
fire extinguishers where fire hazards are present due to engines or fuel
systems. Understanding the type and number of extinguishers required is key to
ensuring compliance and safety.
Does Your Boat Need a Marine Fire
Extinguisher?
Yes! Fire extinguishers are
required on boats with inboard engines, as well as outboard boats featuring
closed compartments for fuel storage, permanent fuel tanks, or enclosed living
spaces. Properly equipping your vessel with the right extinguishers can prevent
fire emergencies from escalating.
Choosing the Right Marine Fire
Extinguisher
When selecting a marine fire
extinguisher, ensure it meets U.S. Coast Guard regulations. The ideal
extinguisher should be:
·
Hand-portable for easy accessibility
·
Classified as B-I or B-II for marine use
·
Equipped with a mounting bracket for secure
storage
Always purchase extinguishers
that are Coast Guard-approved and certified by an independent testing agency,
such as Western Fire & Safety. Be mindful of extinguisher labels, as they
may indicate suitability for multiple fire types (A, B, or C). A unit marked as
“Type A, Size II; Type B; C, Size I” qualifies as a Type B-I extinguisher,
which is a common requirement.
Understanding Fire Extinguisher
Sizes
Marine fire extinguishers are
categorized based on chemical content:
- Size I: Contains at least 2 pounds of dry chemicals
- Size II: Holds a minimum of 10 pounds of dry chemicals
How Many Marine Fire
Extinguishers Are Required?
The number of extinguishers
required depends on the length of your boat. If your vessel is equipped with a
Coast Guard-approved fixed fire suppression system in the engine compartment,
the required number of portable extinguishers may be reduced.
Proper Use & Maintenance
Fire extinguishers should be used
promptly when a fire is small and manageable. To enhance safety, consider
carrying additional extinguishers beyond the minimum requirement. Never
partially discharge an extinguisher as it may lead to leaks, rendering it ineffective.
Always replace or recharge extinguishers after use.
For high-quality, Coast
Guard-approved marine fire extinguishers, contact Western Fire & Safety
Inc. at (206) 782-7825 or visit www.westernfireandsafety.com.