Boat Safety

In the Event of a Fire

Remember Fire Kills wherever you are, whether you are on the open road or all at sea.

Fire at sea - first call the Coastguard on either VHF ch16 or 999
Fire alongside in harbour or a marina - first call the Fire Service '999'
Give your location wherever possible.
Act quickly and make for the nearest landing.
If you have one, use a fire extinguisher, if not use water from over the side.
Never allow fire to block your exit.
Get everyone not involved in fighting the fire off of the boat.
If the fire is close to a gas cylinder, turn off the valve, disconnect the cylinder and remove it to a safe place.
If the fire continues to grow leave the boat.

Equipment you need to fight a fire

All firefighting equipment must be maintained in good condition and kept readily accessible for use in an emergency. All vessels must carry the following firefighting equipment:

Dry powder extinguisher
Foam extinguisher
CO2 extinguisher - do not operate in an occupied cabin
Nine litre bucket
Fire blanket 0.75 m x 0.75 m.

Gas cylinders

Make sure that the valve is switched off before you disconnect the cylinder
Make sure that any new cylinder is properly connected before you switch the valve on
Make sure the full cylinder is securely fixed into position
Make sure the LGR regulator is compatible with your appliances

Before taking on fuel

Stop the engine
Turn off all heating, cooking and lighting appliances and extinguish all naked flames and smoking materials
Close all hatches, doors and portholes
Ensure the tap between the tank and engine is switched off
Avoid overfilling, check the tank with a dipstick

After taking on fuel

Secure the tap tightly
Ensure that fuel has not overflowed or leaked
Mop up any spillages
Ventilate thoroughly before starting the engine or using naked flames/lights

Spare fuel

Petrol should not be carried on board in portable containers if at all possible
Where containers cannot be avoided only containers designed for this purpose should be used
Containers should only be decanted or opened in a well ventilated area
Containers should always be secured by a safety strap or quick release device

Cooking

Never leave a cooker or appliance unattended
Hatches and portholes that may cause a through-draught should be closed
Keep spare/empty containers in the open air

Leaks

Stop the engine and extinguish all naked flames
Put out cigarettes, do not operate electrical switches
Turn off petrol, shut off cock and gas cylinder valve
Ventilate the affected space as much as possible, consider use of bilge pump
Tie up or anchor at a safe distance from other craft
Evacuate the vessel
Warn others in the vicinity
Call the Fire Service '999' and Coastguard on 'VHF Channel 16