Fire Safety At Sea: Choosing Boat Extinguishers

Fire is one of the most frightening and devastating things that can happen on a boat. A fire extinguisher can make the difference between a problem and a catastrophe. All fire extinguishers are classified by a letter and a Roman numeral. The letter indicates the type of fire it is designed to extinguish, and the numeral indicates the size of the extinguisher. The US Coast Guard requires that all extinguishers used on boats must be US Coast Guard-approved and rated for marine use. Boats that are less than 26 feet long must have at least one B-I extinguisher in place, while boats 26 to 40 feet must have two of these. Boats larger than 40 feet but less than 65 feet must have three. The best fire extinguisher for a boat will depend on the type of boat and the potential fire hazards on board.

Fire extinguisher types and their uses

Fire extinguishers are classified by a letter and a Roman numeral. The letter indicates the type of fire it is designed to extinguish, and the numeral indicates the size of the extinguisher. Here is a guide to the different types of fire extinguishers and their uses:

Class A Extinguishers

Class A extinguishers are designed to fight fires that leave an ash. This includes ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, trash, and many plastics, including the fibreglass-reinforced plastic used for decks and hulls. The best extinguishing agents for a Class A fire are water or chemical foam.

Class B Extinguishers

Class B fires involve boiling flammable or combustible liquids such as stove alcohol, grease, gasoline, diesel, kerosene, oil, oil-based paint, teak oil, paint thinners, and varnishes. The best extinguishing agents for a Class B fire are carbon dioxide, dry chemical, or aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF).

Class C Extinguishers

Class C fires involve a charge from energised electrical equipment and have the potential to electrocute or shock a person if you apply water-based extinguishing agents. Turning off the electricity is the top priority when fighting a Class C fire, as this will change the status of the fire to a Class A and/or B fire. The best extinguishing agent is carbon dioxide, but dry chemical can also be used.

Class D Extinguishers

Class D extinguishers are for metal fires.

Class K Extinguishers

Class K extinguishers are for grease fires.

Halon Extinguishers

Halon extinguishers are for electronic fires. They are ideal for enclosed spaces such as engine compartments.

Tri-Class Extinguishers

A tri-class dry chemical extinguisher will meet most boaters' needs. They are designed to fight Class A, B, and C fires.

Fire extinguisher regulations

Fire Extinguisher Requirements:

Firstly, it is important to note that fire extinguisher requirements apply specifically to recreational boats. These boats must have permanently installed fuel tanks or spaces capable of trapping fumes, such as closed compartments for storing portable fuel tanks, unsealed double bottoms, closed living spaces, or closed stowage compartments for flammable materials.

If your boat falls into any of these categories, you are required by law to have at least one fire extinguisher on board. The number of fire extinguishers needed depends on the length of the boat:

• Boats less than 26 feet in length require at least one 5-B fire extinguisher.
• Boats between 26 and 40 feet in length need two 5-B fire extinguishers or a single 20-B extinguisher.
• Vessels between 40 and 65 feet require three 5-B fire extinguishers or a combination of a 20-B and a 5-B extinguisher.
• For boats longer than 65 feet, federal regulations should be consulted.

Additionally, if your boat has an inboard engine, fire extinguishers are mandatory, regardless of the boat's length. However, if your boat is less than 26 feet, uses an outboard engine, has no permanent fuel tanks, and has no areas where fuel vapors can be trapped, a fire extinguisher is not legally required, although it is highly recommended.

Fire Extinguisher Types:

Fire extinguishers are classified by letter and Roman numeral. The letter indicates the type of fire it is designed to extinguish, while the numeral represents the size of the extinguisher. For boats, a Class ABC fire extinguisher is recommended as it can handle all types of fires.

The US Coast Guard (USCG) requires that all extinguishers used on boats be USCG-approved and rated for marine use. The extinguishers should be hand-portable, either B-I or B-II classification, and have a marine-type mounting bracket. They must also bear the USCG classification system marking and approval number on the label.

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance:

To ensure your fire extinguishers are in good working condition, regular maintenance is crucial. Fire extinguishers should be:

• Readily accessible and properly mounted.
• Maintained in good and serviceable condition, with no signs of significant corrosion or damage.
• Charged and indicating so if they have a pressure gauge.
• Equipped with a firmly placed pin lock.
• Free of obstructions in the discharge nozzle.

Additionally, a monthly inspection of your fire extinguisher is recommended. This includes checking the gauge, inspecting the seals and hose for any damage, and weighing dry chemical extinguishers to ensure they meet the minimum weight specified on the label.

Fire Extinguisher Expiration:

Fire extinguishers have an expiration date and must be replaced periodically. Non-rechargeable (disposable) fire extinguishers have a 12-year lifespan and should be removed from service after this period. This expiration date is calculated from the date of manufacture stamped on the bottle. Rechargeable fire extinguishers, on the other hand, require annual maintenance by a technician but do not need to be replaced after 12 years.

Fire extinguisher maintenance

Fire extinguishers are the first line of defence against fires, and proper maintenance is crucial to the safety of your boat. Here are some detailed instructions for fire extinguisher maintenance:

Selecting and Installing the Right Fire Extinguisher

It is essential to ensure that the fire extinguisher is the correct type and available for use. Check the classification type and choose the appropriate one for the types of fires that could occur on your boat. For boats, a tri-class (1A:10BC) fire extinguisher is recommended. This type of extinguisher can handle fires that leave an ash (Class A), boil (Class B), or involve electrical equipment (Class C).

Additionally, make sure the fire extinguisher displays the mark of approval from a recognised testing laboratory and is properly mounted according to the manufacturer's guidelines, ensuring it is not obstructed by other objects. The US Coast Guard requires that all extinguishers used on boats must be Coast Guard-approved and rated for marine use.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Visual inspections of fire extinguishers should be conducted monthly. Check the date of inspection, which should be written on the back of the annual maintenance tag attached to each extinguisher. Here are some key things to look for:

• Ensure the fire extinguisher is easily accessible and not obstructed.
• Inspect the outside of the extinguisher for any damage like dents, cracks, or rust.
• If equipped with a gauge, ensure the needle points to the green "charged" portion of the dial.
• Verify that the pin and tamper seal are in place and undamaged.
• Check the hose and nozzle for obstructions or any signs of damage or aging.
• Tip the extinguisher upside down occasionally to loosen any compacted extinguishing agent.
• Ensure the label is legible and facing out when mounted.

Annual Servicing

It is recommended to have a reputable extinguisher maintenance company perform an annual inspection and service. They will thoroughly check the extinguisher for any issues and recharge, repair, or replace it as needed. This inspection may also include hydrostatic testing to assess the pressure vessel's structural integrity.

Recharging

Fire extinguishers should be recharged immediately after each use, periodically throughout their life, and when leaks or depressurisation occur. Licensed technicians should conduct internal examinations and recharging six and twelve years from the date of manufacture to ensure compliance and functionality. Fire extinguishers must be replaced 12 years after manufacture.

Training

It is essential to know how to use a fire extinguisher properly. Familiarise yourself and your crew with the manufacturer's instructions and the PASS technique: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the lever smoothly, and Sweep from side to side. Additionally, consider enrolling in fire extinguisher training classes to gain hands-on experience and build confidence in using the equipment effectively.

Fire extinguisher placement

Firstly, it is important to understand the different types of fire extinguishers and their classifications. Fire extinguishers are classified by a letter and a Roman numeral. The letter indicates the type of fire it is designed to extinguish, with Class A for fires that leave ash (ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, cloth), Class B for fires involving flammable liquids (like stove alcohol, grease, gasoline), and Class C for fires involving energized electrical equipment. The numeral indicates the size, with I and II being portable by hand, and III, IV, and V being semi-portable. Ensure you have the appropriate type and size of fire extinguishers for your boat.

The U.S. Coast Guard has specific requirements for fire extinguishers on boats. All extinguishers used on boats must be U.S. Coast Guard-approved, rated for marine use, and hand-portable. The number of extinguishers required depends on the length of your boat. Boats less than 26 feet long need at least one B-I extinguisher, boats 26 to 40 feet long need two, and boats larger than 40 feet but less than 65 feet need three. Additionally, the extinguishers must be labelled as "Marine Type – USCG Approved" and have the Coast Guard classification system marking and approval number on the label.

Now, for placement, it is recommended to have at least one extinguisher in the cockpit, one in each stateroom, and one in the galley area, reachable even if the stove is on fire. Ensure that the extinguishers are mounted in a readily accessible position and are not obstructed. You should also consider placing them near potential fire hazards, such as the engine compartment or the stove. If your boat has multiple levels, ensure that there are extinguishers on each level.

It is also important to regularly inspect and maintain your fire extinguishers. Check the pressure gauge readings, ensure the lock pins are in place, and keep the discharge nozzles clean and unobstructed. Look out for any signs of corrosion or damage. Depending on the type of extinguisher, they may need to be replaced or serviced every 12 years.

Additionally, all passengers on board should know how to use the fire extinguishers. Take the time to read the instructions and familiarize yourself with the proper technique. This includes knowing how to activate the extinguisher, how to aim at the base of the fire, and how to sweep the contents from side to side.

Fire extinguisher testing

Fire extinguishers are essential safety equipment for boats, and it is crucial to ensure they are in proper working condition through regular testing and maintenance. Here are some detailed instructions for fire extinguisher testing, specifically tailored for boats:

Before testing, it is important to understand the different types of fire extinguishers and their classifications. Fire extinguishers are categorised based on the type of fire they are designed to extinguish. Class A extinguishers are for fires that leave an ash, such as those involving wood, paper, cloth, and plastics. Class B extinguishers are for flammable liquids, such as stove alcohol, grease, and gasoline. Class C extinguishers are used for fires involving energised electrical equipment, where there is a risk of electrocution. It is recommended that boats carry at least one extinguisher capable of tackling Class A, B, or C fires (known as an ABC extinguisher).

When testing fire extinguishers, the following steps should be performed:

• Check Accessibility and Visibility: Ensure that the fire extinguisher is in its designated location and is easily accessible. It should not be blocked by any objects or equipment, and its path should be clear of any obstructions.
• Examine the Physical Condition: Inspect the fire extinguisher for any physical defects or damage. Check the cylinder and metal parts for corrosion, dents, or other signs of deterioration. Ensure that the connection between the hose and cylinder is secure, and look for any cracks in the hose or leaks in the nozzle.
• Verify the Pressure Gauge: Check the pressure gauge to ensure it is within the operable range. Typically, a needle within the green zone indicates a sufficient charge. If the needle is in the left red zone, the extinguisher is undercharged and needs to be recharged. A needle in the right red zone suggests overcharging, which can be dangerous.
• Inspect the Locking Pin and Tamper Seal: Ensure that the locking pin is intact and securely held by the seal. This locking mechanism prevents accidental discharge. If the locking pin or seal is missing or broken, replace them immediately.
• Check the Weight and Fullness: Lift the fire extinguisher to ensure it feels full. Weigh the unit and compare it to the specified weight on the label. If there is a significant discrepancy, follow the service manual instructions for further action.
• Inspect the Operating Instructions: Ensure that the operating instructions on the nameplate are legible and facing outward. It is crucial that users can easily understand how to use the fire extinguisher in an emergency.
• Check the Service Date: Verify the date of the last professional service on the tag. Fire extinguishers should be inspected and serviced by a licensed contractor at least once a year. Initial and date the back of the tag after each inspection.
• Test the Locking Pin Function: To ensure the fire extinguisher is pressurised, gently press down on the locking pin with your thumb. If the pin pops back up immediately when you release your thumb, the unit is likely pressurised. If it does not pop back up or rises slowly, it may be losing pressure.
• Hydrostatic Testing: Hydrostatic testing is required every 5-12 years, depending on the extinguisher type. This testing is performed by certified professionals to check for any leaks. It involves filling the extinguisher shell and hose with water pressure to identify potential leaks. If leaks, dents, or damage are found, the extinguisher must be condemned.

Record-Keeping

It is important to maintain proper records of fire extinguisher testing and maintenance. Keep a logbook or use electronic files to record the date of each inspection, the person conducting the inspection, and any relevant observations or actions taken. This helps ensure fire extinguishers are maintained in good working condition and allows for easy reference in case of external inspections.

Additionally, fire extinguishers must be replaced 12 years after their manufacture date. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines and local regulations to ensure your fire extinguishers are safe and effective.

Frequently asked questions