What should you do if a fire breaks out on your boat?

Using the closest fire extinguisher available is the correct course of action when a fire breaks out on your boat. Fire extinguishers are specifically designed to combat fires effectively and can help contain and extinguish the flames before they escalate into a larger emergency. It’s crucial to use the correct type of extinguisher suited for the nature of the fire (for instance, using a marine-rated extinguisher) to maximize safety and effectiveness.

Accessing a fire extinguisher quickly can significantly reduce the risk to both the vessel and the people onboard. Fire can spread rapidly on a boat due to the confined space and presence of combustible materials, making immediate action critical.

Throwing water onto the fire might not be effective and could potentially spread the fire, especially if it involves flammable liquids or if it is an electrical fire. Waiting for the fire to burn itself out is highly unsafe and should never be considered, as it could lead to the destruction of the vessel and pose life-threatening risks. Ensuring the fire is out before calling for help may delay emergency response, which is vital in case the extinguishing efforts fail.

Promptly using the nearest fire extinguisher prioritizes your safety and may prevent a small incident from becoming a catastrophic situation