Fire Extinguisher Placement: A Guide For Boat Owners

Fire extinguishers are a crucial safety feature on boats, and knowing where to place them can make all the difference in an emergency. While there are no specific regulations dictating the exact location of fire extinguishers on boats, they must be easily accessible and reachable in the event of a fire. This means storing them away from fire hazards like the engine or fuel containers, and instead placing them in high-traffic areas like the cabin, kitchen, or bilge. Additionally, fire extinguishers should be mounted on a wall bracket or placed in a fire extinguisher cabinet, with height restrictions for different weight categories. With these considerations in mind, boat owners can ensure they are prepared for any potential fire incidents.

Fire extinguisher regulations for boats

Fire extinguishers are a crucial safety feature on boats, and regulations ensure boaters are well-equipped to handle fires. These regulations vary based on factors like boat model, length, and features. Here is a comprehensive guide to fire extinguisher regulations for boats:

Boat Features Dictate Requirements

The presence of certain features on a boat determines whether a fire extinguisher is mandatory. According to the United States Coast Guard (USCG), recreational boats must carry fire extinguishers if they meet any of the following conditions:

• Presence of permanently installed fuel tanks.
• Spaces capable of trapping fumes, such as closed compartments under seats where portable fuel tanks are stored.
• Double bottom not sealed to the hull or filled with flotation material.
• Closed living spaces.
• Closed stowage compartments for combustible or flammable materials.
• Any inboard engine.

Number and Type of Extinguishers

The number and type of fire extinguishers required depend on the boat's length and model year. Here are the requirements for boats up to 65 feet in length:

• Vessels under 26 feet require at least one 5-B fire extinguisher.
• Vessels between 26 and 40 feet require two 5-B fire extinguishers or one 20-B extinguisher.
• Vessels between 40 and 65 feet require three 5-B fire extinguishers or one 20-B and one 5-B extinguisher.

For boats longer than 65 feet, boaters must refer to federal regulations for specific requirements. Additionally, the model year of the boat determines the acceptable types of fire extinguishers.

Boat Model Year 2018 and Newer

For boats with a model year of 2018 or newer, only 5-B and 20-B rated fire extinguishers are mandated. These extinguishers must be date-stamped and replaced every 12 years.

Boat Model Year 1953 to 2017

For boats manufactured between 1953 and 2017, there are two options:

• Carry 5-B or 20-B rated fire extinguishers that are not expired (less than 12 years old).
• Carry B-I or B-II rated fire extinguishers in good and serviceable condition.

Placement and Accessibility

While there are no specific regulations dictating the location of fire extinguishers on boats, they must be placed in easily accessible locations. The USCG recommends storing fire extinguishers on wall brackets or in fire extinguisher cabinets. The height of these brackets is also suggested: extinguishers under 40 pounds should be within 5 feet of the floor, while those over 40 pounds should be within 3.5 feet.

Additionally, fire extinguishers should be kept away from spots where fires may break out, such as near the engine or fuel containers. High-traffic areas like the cabin, kitchen, or bilge are ideal for quick access. If stored in rooms with flammable materials, it is best to place them next to the door.

Fire extinguisher placement

Number and Type of Extinguishers:

Firstly, it's imperative to have the right number and type of fire extinguishers on board. The required quantity and type depend on the size and specifications of your boat. The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has set regulations outlining the necessary fire extinguishers based on boat length and features.

For vessels under 26 feet in length, you need at least one B-I extinguisher. Boats between 26 and 40 feet require two B-I extinguishers or a single B-II extinguisher. Vessels between 40 and 65 feet need a minimum of three B-I extinguishers or a combination of one B-I and one B-II extinguisher. If your boat exceeds 65 feet, refer to federal regulations for specific requirements.

Additionally, the age and condition of your boat also determine the type of extinguisher needed. For boat models from 2018 onwards, only 5-B and 20-B rated fire extinguishers are permitted. Older boats, between the model years 1953 and 2017, can use either 5-B or 20-B rated extinguishers that are not expired or B-I or B-II rated extinguishers in good condition.

Placement Guidelines:

Now, for the placement itself, there are several key considerations:

• Accessibility: Fire extinguishers should be placed in easily accessible locations. In an emergency, every second counts, so ensure they are not obstructed and can be quickly reached.
• Proximity to High-Risk Areas: While it's important to have fire extinguishers near potential fire hazards, avoid placing them directly next to common fire sources like the engine or fuel containers. Instead, opt for high-traffic areas like the cabin, kitchen, or bilge.
• Mounting: Fire extinguishers should be conspicuously and securely mounted on wall brackets or in fire extinguisher cabinets. This ensures they are readily accessible and don't pose a tripping hazard.
• Height: The USCG provides guidelines for the height of the mounting bracket. Fire extinguishers weighing less than 40 pounds should be mounted no higher than 5 feet from the floor, while those over 40 pounds should be mounted no higher than 3.5 feet from the floor.
• Storage Rooms: If storing fire extinguishers in rooms with flammable materials, place them next to the door. This balances accessibility and distance from flammable objects.
• Passenger Awareness: Ensure that all passengers are aware of the locations of fire extinguishers and other safety equipment. Inform them about the procedures to follow in case of an emergency.

Maintenance:

Proper maintenance of fire extinguishers is also crucial. Here are some key maintenance tips:

• Monthly Inspections: Conduct regular monthly inspections of your fire extinguishers. Check the pressure gauge, seals, hose condition, and weight (for dry chemical extinguishers).
• Recharging: After using a fire extinguisher, remember to recharge it before returning it to its designated spot.
• Pressure and Nozzle Checks: Check the pressure level and the nozzle for signs of powder at least once every six months.
• Replacement: Fire extinguishers have a limited lifespan. Disposable fire extinguishers should be replaced every 12 years, according to the date of manufacture stamped on the bottle.

By following these placement and maintenance guidelines, you can ensure your fire extinguishers are effective and easily accessible in the event of an emergency on your boat.

Fire extinguisher types

Fire extinguishers are classified by a letter and a number symbol. The letter indicates the type of fire the unit is designed to extinguish, and the number indicates the size of the extinguisher.

Class A: Combustible Solids

Class A fires have a solid combustible fuel source, like wood or paper. You can use water or a Class A fire extinguisher to put out this type of fire.

Class B: Flammable Liquids

Class B fires have a flammable liquid fuel source, like gasoline. Do not use water to put out a Class B fire, as it will spread the fire. Instead, use a Class B fire extinguisher.

Class C: Electrical Fires

Class C fires are electrical. Like a Class B fire, never use water on a Class C fire. Use a Class C fire extinguisher.

Because gasoline fires are the most common type of boat fire, marine-rated Class B fire extinguishers are required on most boats. However, a Class ABC fire extinguisher, which can handle all fires, is the most recommended class of extinguisher.

A tri-class dry chemical extinguisher will meet most boaters' needs. These extinguishers are suitable for extinguishing fires caused by flammable liquids and gases. They contain ammonium phosphate, halogenated agents, and carbon dioxide as extinguishing agents.

The number of fire extinguishers you need on your boat depends on the size of your boat.

• If your boat is less than 26 feet, you need at least one B-I, Coast Guard-approved fire extinguisher on board.
• If your boat is between 26 and 40 feet, you need either two B-I extinguishers or one B-II extinguisher.
• If your boat is between 40 and 65 feet, you need either three B-I extinguishers or one B-II and one B-I extinguisher.
• If your boat is longer than 65 feet, check the federal regulations.

Additionally, if your boat has an approved fixed system, the requirements are as follows:

• For boats between 26 and 40 feet, you need two 5-B, two 10-B, or one 20-B extinguisher.
• For boats between 40 and 65 feet, you need three 5-B, three 10-B, or one 20-B and one 5-B or 10-B extinguisher.

Note that one 20-B portable fire extinguisher may be substituted for two 5-B portable fire extinguishers.

Fire extinguisher maintenance

Fire extinguishers are essential safety equipment on boats. They can help contain fires and prevent the loss of your boat, injuries, or even the loss of life. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain your fire extinguishers in good working condition.

Firstly, fire extinguishers must be easily accessible and stored in a wall-mounted bracket or cabinet. They should not be placed near spots where fires may break out, such as near the engine or fuel containers. Instead, they should be kept in high-traffic areas like the cabin, kitchen, or bilge. If stored in rooms with flammable materials, they should be placed next to the door.

The USCG has specific requirements for fire extinguisher maintenance:

• Fire extinguishers must be of an approved type, with the label "Marine Type – USCG Approved".
• They must not be expired or appear previously used. Disposable fire extinguishers are considered expired 12 years after their manufacturing date and must be replaced.
• They must be maintained in good and serviceable working condition. This means:
• The pressure gauge reading or indicator must be in the operable range or position.
• The lock pin must be firmly in place.
• The discharge nozzle must be clean and free of obstruction.
• The extinguisher must not show visible signs of significant corrosion or damage.

Monthly inspections are necessary to keep your fire extinguisher in proper working order. During these inspections, you should:

• Check the gauge to ensure the extinguisher is fully charged.
• Inspect the hoses and seals for any cracks or signs of damage.
• Weigh the extinguisher to ensure it meets the weight requirements on the label (for dry chemical extinguishers).
• Recharge the fire extinguisher whenever necessary.
• Have a qualified professional maintain, service, and recharge the extinguisher according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How to use a fire extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are a crucial safety feature on boats, and knowing how to use one is essential. Here is a detailed guide on how to use a fire extinguisher:

Firstly, locate the fire extinguisher. On a boat, they are typically mounted on wall brackets in easily accessible locations, such as the cabin, kitchen, or bilge. Keep in mind that fire extinguishers must be replaced 12 years after their manufacture date, so always check the date stamped on the bottle.

Now, let's go through the steps of using a fire extinguisher, which can be remembered with the acronym PASS:

Pull the pin: The first step is to pull out the pin to unlock the fire extinguisher. This will break the tamper seal and allow you to discharge the extinguisher.

Aim at the base of the fire: Point the nozzle at the base of the fire, not the flames. Aiming at the base will help deprive the fire of its fuel source. Ensure you are at a safe distance from the fire when doing so.

Squeeze the handle: Squeeze the handle to discharge the extinguishing agent. This will release the pressurized agent to suppress the fire.

Sweep side to side: Sweep the nozzle from side to side until the fire is extinguished. Make sure to cover the entire area of the fire, including any surrounding areas that could fuel the fire.

It is important to note that fire extinguishers have limitations, and they may not be effective for large or rapidly spreading fires. Always read the directions on your fire extinguisher, as different types have different capabilities and instructions. Additionally, consider having more fire extinguishers on board than the minimum required by the Coast Guard for added safety.

Frequently asked questions