Fire extinguishers are crucial safety equipment that every boat must have. It is essential to know where to store them to ensure they are accessible in case of an emergency. In this article, we will discuss where fire extinguishers should be stored on a boat.
Fire extinguishers on a boat should be stored in easily accessible and visible locations, such as near the galley, in the engine room, in the cockpit, or near sleeping areas. They should be securely mounted using wall mounts, bracket mounts, or recessed mounts. Legal requirements vary depending on the boat’s size and type.
Legal Requirements
Before discussing where to store fire extinguishers on a boat, it is important to know the legal requirements for boats. The U.S. Coast Guard requires that boats have at least one fire extinguisher onboard. However, the number and type of fire extinguishers required will depend on the size and type of the boat.
The Coast Guard also requires that fire extinguishers be easily accessible and in good working condition. Fire extinguishers must also be mounted securely and be visible to passengers and crew members.
Ideal Locations to Store Fire Extinguishers
There are several ideal locations to store fire extinguishers on a boat. Here are some of the most common locations:
Near the Galley
The galley is one of the most common places for a fire to start on a boat. For this reason, it is a good idea to store a fire extinguisher near the galley. This will ensure that the extinguisher is easily accessible in case of an emergency.
In the Engine Room
The engine room is another area on a boat where fires are common. For this reason, it is important to store a fire extinguisher in the engine room. The extinguisher should be easily accessible and stored in a secure location away from any potential sources of ignition.
In the Cockpit
The cockpit is a central location on most boats and is easily accessible to crew members and passengers. Storing a fire extinguisher in the cockpit ensures that it is readily available in case of an emergency.
Near Sleeping Areas
Many boats have sleeping quarters, and it is important to store a fire extinguisher near these areas. This will ensure that passengers and crew members can quickly access the extinguisher in case of a fire.
Mounting Fire Extinguishers Fire extinguishers must be mounted securely to ensure that they do not become dislodged during rough seas. There are several mounting options available, including:
Wall Mounts
Wall mounts are one of the most common mounting options for fire extinguishers. They are easy to install and can be mounted on any flat surface.
Bracket Mounts
Bracket mounts are another common option for fire extinguishers. They are designed to hold the extinguisher securely in place and are typically made of metal or plastic.
Recessed Mounts
Recessed mounts are a good option for boats with limited space. They are designed to be mounted into a wall or cabinet, which helps to save space.
Conclusion
Fire extinguishers are an essential safety item that every boat must have. Knowing where to store them and how to mount them is crucial to ensuring that they are easily accessible in case of an emergency.
By following the guidelines I have outlined, you can ensure that your fire extinguishers are stored in the best possible locations and are ready to use in case of a fire.
