Why You Need It

For starters, it's the law. According to the U.S. Coast Guard's website, fire extinguishers are required "where a fire hazard could be expected from the motors or the fuel system." Any boat that has a permanently installed fuel tank, an inboard engine, closed living spaces and compartments, and under-seat compartments where portable fuel tanks may be stored, needs to have a fire extinguisher. One may not be enough, either. Boaters with vessels larger than 26 feet will need more than one fire extinguisher. It may seem odd to load up on fire extinguishers when you're surrounded by water, but many of the types of fires you could be handling (flammable liquids like gasoline and oil, or even electrical fires) won't be put out with water. If anything, it'll make them even more dangerous.


What You Need To Know

An everyday fire extinguisher won't cut it. The approved extinguishers required for boats are hand-portable, either B-I or B-II classification (the "B" indicates the class of fire, in this case, flammable liquids or gasoline), and have a specific marine-type mounting bracket. The classifications for fire extinguishers can be somewhat confusing. Make sure the label says Marine Type USCG and Type B is indicated. They should be mounted in an easy-to-reach location and away from areas where a fire might pop up, limiting your access to the extinguisher. That's why you shouldn't store one inside the engine compartment. Keep in mind that the fire extinguisher will have to hold up against vibration, possible salt spray and marine conditions, so consider your designated area carefully. Smart locations include the cockpit and a safe spot in the galley that won't be too close to a stove or microwave, should those appliances happen to ignite a fire.


The Final Word

Once you've figured out what type you need, then you can shop for features. Just to reiterate, a water extinguisher isn't a good idea on a boat, because it won't handle the liquid or electrical fires you should expect. By purchasing a model that uses dry chemicals effective on all types of fires - but, just as a warning, are also corrosive to metal and electronics - you've already upgraded your safety. Dry chemicals, Halotron 1, FM-200 and Aqueous foam work well to put out all classes of fires. Because they'll be on board and therefore are more susceptible to the elements, check to see if the extinguishers you've selected have longer-lasting, non-corroding features for their various cylinders and handles. Some of these models are even refillable, so you won't be constantly replacing an entire set of extinguishers for your boat.