Fire on the Water
Water, water everywhere…but you can still have a boat fire.
Boat fires are especially dangerous because there’s no place to run, and you may end up literally “in the water without a paddle”. All boaters should check the safety equipment on their boats before every cruise.
Accidents can happen to anyone at any time. Here are some checks every captain should make before every cruise.
- Check your Fuel System. Make sure to check your fuel lines and connections before a cruise. Ensure the flame arrestor is cleaned and properly fitted.
- Electrical System Maintenance. Check all electrical connections and equipment are up to standards.
- Fire Extinguishers. Check them regularly and know how to use them in an emergency.
- Smoke and CO Detectors. Boats with enclosed cabins and sleeping quarters should have CO and Smoke detectors that are designed for marine use.
- PFD’s. It goes without saying that the needs to be personal floatation devices available for everyone aboard, especially if children are aboard and they have are wearing them: no exceptions! Any pets should also have a PFD on then as well.
- Have an “Action Plan” ready for all possible problems, especially for boat fires. Go over all possible scenarios so that you and your crew/passengers l know what to do in an emergency.
The best way to avoid any emergency is through preparation and prevention before you even set sail. Do what airplanes do: no many how many times you fly you get the same set belt and evacuation lecture. Boat owners are both “pilot” and “steward”.
A major responsibility for any Captain is having a well maintained boat protected by quality Canvas Covering from CMC Canvas LLC.
