Boat Fire Safety Tips

 Proper maintenance, safe fueling practices, and routine inspections can dramatically reduce the risk of boat fires. Check the tips below to keep you and your family safe on the water.

Before You Leave the Dock

Before every trip, inspect your boat and its safety equipment.

• Make sure your fire extinguisher(s) are fully charged, easily accessible and Coast Guard-approved for your vessel.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors if your boat has an enclosed cabin.
• Check that navigation lights, bilge pumps and electrical systems are operating properly.
• Inspect batteries for corrosion, loose connections or damaged cables.
• Ensure everyone aboard knows where fire extinguishers are located and how to use them.
• Review emergency procedures, including how to issue a distress call and where life jackets are stored.

Fuel Safely

Gasoline vapors are highly flammable and can accumulate in enclosed spaces.

• Turn off engines, generators and all ignition sources before fueling.
• Extinguish smoking materials and prohibit open flames during fueling.
• Close all hatches, windows and doors before fueling to help prevent fuel from entering the cabin.
• Avoid overfilling fuel tanks.
• After fueling, open hatches and run the engine compartment blower for at least four minutes before starting the engine.
• Check for fuel odors before starting the engine. If you smell gasoline, locate and fix the problem before operating the boat.

Maintain Your Boat

Routine maintenance is one of the best ways to prevent fires.

• Inspect fuel lines, hoses and fittings regularly for leaks, cracks or wear.
• Replace damaged wiring and corroded electrical components promptly.
• Keep battery terminals clean and secure.
• Have engines, generators and propane systems inspected according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Repair fuel, oil or hydraulic leaks immediately.
• Keep the engine compartment clean and free of grease, oil and debris.

Electrical Safety

Electrical failures are a leading cause of boat fires.

• Avoid overloading electrical circuits and outlets.
• Use only marine-rated electrical equipment and extension cords.
• Disconnect shore power before inspecting electrical systems.
• Inspect shore power cords for signs of wear, overheating or damaged plugs.
• Replace frayed cords or damaged connectors immediately.
• Never bypass fuses or circuit breakers.

Fire Safety While Boating

• Never leave cooking equipment unattended.
• Keep flammable liquids away from heat sources.
• Store spare fuel only in approved containers and in well-ventilated areas.
• Secure propane cylinders properly and inspect them regularly for leaks.
• Keep the engine compartment free of combustible materials.
• Do not block access to fire extinguishers or emergency exits.
• Never grill or use open flames inside an enclosed cabin.

Fire Safety While Moored or Stored

Even when your boat isn't in use, fire risks remain.

• Disconnect shore power if it is not needed.
• Use only approved marine battery chargers and inspect batteries periodically.
• Turn off propane at the cylinder when the boat is unattended.
• Remove trash, oily rags and combustible materials from the boat.
• Store portable fuel tanks in approved locations away from ignition sources.
• Inspect for rodent damage to electrical wiring before returning the boat to service.
• If your boat is stored on a trailer, keep vegetation, leaves and combustible materials away from the hull and engine. If possible, store away from your home or other structures.

If a Fire Starts

Your first priority is protecting lives.

• Alert everyone on board immediately.
• Stop the boat if it is safe to do so.
• Shut off the engine and fuel supply if possible.
• Put on life jackets.
• Use a fire extinguisher only if the fire is small and you have a safe escape route.
• If the fire cannot be controlled immediately, move everyone away from the fire and prepare to abandon the vessel if necessary.
• Call 911 or issue a distress call on Marine VHF Channel 16 as soon as it is safe.
• Never re-enter a burning boat.

Remember

Regular inspections, proper fueling procedures and routine maintenance can prevent many boat fires. Before every trip, take a few extra minutes to inspect your fuel system, batteries and electrical equipment. A little preparation can help keep you, your passengers and your boat safe all season long.

For more information, visit Boat and Marina Fire Safety.