Onboard Fire Prevention

Fire onboard a vessel at sea can have devastating consequences for crew and passengers especially in a fibreglass hull. Once the fire takes hold there is very little that can be done with the type of extinguishers normally carried on small vessels. Prevention is the answer!

The following tips can be applied to most small vessels

• Keep vessel and engine space clean and tidy.
• Keep bilges dry and clean.
• Clean up all spills immediately.
• Ensure batteries are well ventilated.
• Do not overload electrical wiring system.
• Safely dispose of oily rags and rubbish.
• Switch off fuel at the valves when not in use.
• Follow strict no smoking rules when refuelling.
• Maintain good ventilation in engine space.
• Maintain fuel lines in good condition.
• Keep pipe joints and valve glands tightened up, check for leaks regularly.
• Use drip trays where necessary, and clean regularly.
• Store flammables in designated places (do you really need them onboard?)
• Do not allow cooking grease to build up.

Make sure your crew and passengers know the location and use of all fire fighting appliances on your vessel.Keep extinguishers fully charged and in date.Discuss what to do in the event of fire and perform regular fire drills with your family, crew and passengers.