Shopping For A Fire Extinguisher
2008 Buyer's Guide: Accessories
by Graham Garrison
January 29, 2008
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.
Fireboy clean agent fire extinguishers
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.
Kidde multipurpose fire extinguishers and First Alert Tundra spray (right)
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.