Number Of Fire Extinguishers Required On A Pleasure Craft
When you are out on the water, safety should always be your top priority. One of the most important safety measures you need to take on a pleasure craft is to have fire extinguishers on board. But how many fire extinguishers do you need? In this article, we will explore the regulations and guidelines regarding the number of fire extinguishers required on a pleasure craft.
Regulations
The regulations regarding the number of fire extinguishers required on a pleasure craft vary depending on the size of the vessel and the type of equipment on board. The regulations are set out by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG).
According to the USCG, all pleasure craft must have at least one B-1 type fire extinguisher on board if they have any of the following:
- A fixed or portable fuel tank
- Enclosed compartments where flammable materials may be stored
- A closed engine compartment
- Double bottom hulls not completely filled with flotation material
For pleasure craft that are between 26 and 40 feet in length, the USCG requires that there be at least two B-1 type fire extinguishers on board. For pleasure craft that are between 40 and 65 feet in length, there should be three B-1 type fire extinguishers on board.
The CCG has similar regulations, requiring at least one fire extinguisher on board for pleasure craft with enclosed compartments and fuel-burning appliances. For pleasure craft between 8 and 12 meters in length, there should be at least two fire extinguishers on board.
Types of Fire Extinguishers
It is also important to ensure that the fire extinguishers you have on board are the right type for the potential fire hazards on your pleasure craft. There are four classes of fire extinguishers:
- Class A: for fires involving ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, or cloth
- Class B: for fires involving flammable liquids such as gasoline or oil
- Class C: for fires involving electrical equipment such as wiring or appliances
- Class D: for fires involving flammable metals such as magnesium or potassium
Most pleasure craft will need to have a Class B fire extinguisher on board, as they are at risk of fires involving fuel. However, it is also recommended to have a Class A fire extinguisher on board, as well as a Class C extinguisher if there is any electrical equipment on the vessel.
Placement of Fire Extinguishers
It is not enough to simply have the required number of fire extinguishers on board - they must also be placed in the right locations for quick and easy access in case of a fire. The USCG recommends that at least one fire extinguisher be located in the engine compartment, one in or near the galley or cooking area, and one in or near the main cabin area.
The CCG recommends that fire extinguishers be located in the galley, close to the fuel-burning appliance, and in a location that is easily accessible from the helm station.
Conclusion
Having the proper number and type of fire extinguishers on board your pleasure craft is essential for ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew members. Be sure to check the regulations for your specific vessel and equip it accordingly. Also, make sure that the fire extinguishers are easily accessible and in good working condition at all times. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your time on the water with peace of mind.