Tips for Keeping Your Boat Safe From Fires This Summer

As the summer breeze blows in, boaters in the Bay Area are preparing their vessel to hit the waters and enjoy the sun. However, before you leave the marina, it’s essential to ensure your boat is equipped with the right safety equipment to comply with fire safety regulations and standards set by the U.S. Coast Guard and Division of Boating and Waterways.

In this blog, we’ll break down the necessary precautions to reduce the risks of onboard fires and keep your boat safe and secure.

Fire Safety Tips

You may be surrounded by water, but a boat fire can easily turn into a dangerous situation — especially if you’re venturing out to sea for a relaxing day of fun or exploring remote areas.

Safeguard your vessel against devastating damage, potential injuries, and even loss of life by following these preventive measures:

• Inspect your fire extinguisher regularly.
• Keep your boat clean to prevent fires.
• Check electrical systems and fuel lines often.
• No smoking onboard.
• Keep fire safety equipment accessible.
• Practice fire drills with passengers.

When Is a Fire Extinguisher Necessary?

The need for a fire extinguisher depends on the size and type of boat you are operating, as well as local maritime regulations. The Division of Boating and Waterways outlines specific guidelines for the types of fire extinguishers required for recreational vessels, commercial vessels, and different waterways.  

California boating laws require vessels without fixed extinguishing systems and with fixed extinguishing systems to carry class and size-specific fire extinguishers for the following:  

• Sailboats
• Motorboats under 16 feet long
• Motorboats ranging from 16 to under 26 feet in length
• Motorboats measuring 26 to under 40 feet in length
• Motorboats spanning 40 to 66 feet in length

With new regulations for disposable fire extinguishers and label classifications, it’s crucial to ensure yours meets the latest standards and requirements.

What Size Fire Extinguisher Will You Need?

Boat dimensions and potential fire hazards play a crucial role in determining the appropriate size and type of extinguisher. It’s important to factor in your vessel’s layout, including engine type, fuel systems, cooking appliances, and electrical equipment, to identify the right-sized fire extinguisher.

Fire extinguishers are classified into five different types. Each type is designed to handle specific classes of fires:

• Class A: Effective against fires involving ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, and some plastics.
• Class B: Suitable for fires fueled by flammable liquids such as gasoline, diesel, oil, and grease.
• Class C: Designed for fires involving electrical equipment and wiring.
• Class D: Specifically intended for fires involving combustible metals such as magnesium, sodium, or titanium.
• Class K: Typically used in commercial kitchens and suitable for fires involving cooking oils and fats.

Class B fire extinguishers are required for most boats, with the number before it indicating the square footage the extinguisher can effectively cover during a fire. As of April 2022, fire extinguishers must be labeled as 5-B, 10-B, or 20-B. Extinguishers labeled only as B-I or B-II are no longer permissible.

Where Should a Fire Extinguisher Be Kept?

Accessibility and visibility are the key components of fire extinguisher placement. Strategically mounting your fire extinguisher near the helm, galley, or cabin areas ensures quick access in case of emergencies.

Here are a few considerations for mounting your fire extinguisher:

• Choose the right location that is accessible, away from the outdoor elements, such as UV rays and salt water, to ensure effectiveness.
• Use mounting brackets designed for marine environments.
• Mount your fire extinguisher in a stable location that can withstand the weight and movement of your boat.
• Follow the recommended manufacturer mounting guidelines.

Paired with regular fire safety inspections, you can guarantee that extinguishers remain secure yet easily retrievable during fire emergencies.

Get Your Fire Extinguisher From Foothill Fire Protection

Choosing the right fire extinguisher for your boat isn’t just about meeting local compliance and regulatory standards; it’s about ensuring the utmost safety for you, your passengers, and your vessel.

At Foothill Fire Protection, we provide reliable fire extinguisher services to boat owners in the Bay Area, prioritizing your safety and peace of mind. With on-time services that keep you on budget and fire protection solutions tailored to your specific needs, trust us to safeguard your open water adventures.

To schedule fire protection services in the Bay Area, call Foothill Fire Protection (916) 663-3582 today!