Preventing a Boat Fire

The number one fear of any boater is a fire onboard. While offshore, you cannot pull over and flee from a burning vehicle. There is no escape route from fire or the toxic fumes fiberglass emits while burning. However, protecting you and your boat from fire is easier than you think.

Outnumbering other boat fire causes two to one, fuel related fires happen most frequently and are usually the most avoidable fires. By following the Coast Guard recommended procedures, you can easily prevent a fuel related boat fire. First, close all openings and hatches before fueling. Make sure to extinguish all smoking materials, turn off engines, stoves, and all electrical equipment, and have all passengers get off the boat. While fueling, keep the nozzle in direct contact with the tank and clean up any spilled fuel. Ventilate the boat when finished and run the blower for at least four minutes. Lastly, check the bilges for fuel vapors before you start the engines. The best way to detect vapors is by smell. Do not start the engines if you smell fuel vapors.

The second leading cause of boat fires is electrical issues. During do-it-yourself installations of equipment and wiring, it is important not to use electrical tape. Use a liquid electrical tape that is carried by marine stores and make sure all connections are made by a single wire of the proper gauge, without splices. Corrosion and signs of worn wiring should be checked for often, along with checking your electrical system. If you find signs of damage or age, new wiring is worth the install.

Proper maintenance of your vessel can prevent fires and save lives. You must always have a Coast Guard required fire extinguisher. Know how to use the fire extinguisher and inspect it once a month. It is also a good idea to have a professional install an extinguishing system in your engine box. Applying fire retardant to all upholstery and storing flammable materials away from the engine compartment and in an area that is well ventilated will buy you some time in the event a fire does occur.