Fire on Board must be one of the most challenging situations for a skipper whilst under way, IMAGINE, That is why it is vital to have all your fire equipment up to date, and this year as like any other it’s time to have ours inspected.

We only carry Dry Powder extinguishers on board although there are many others for various types of fire.

• CO2-BLACK STRIP
• HALON-GREEN STRIP
• FOAM-CREAM STRIP
• WATER-RED STRIP
• WET CHEMICAL-YELLOW STRIP
• DRY POWDER-BLUE STRIP covers the most types.

Although if you have operated a dry powder extinguisher in a confined space you will only be able to stay in that space for only a few seconds before having to vacate.

We carry a 1kg powder in each cabin, a 2kg in the saloon for any saloon fire also doubles as the engine bay extinguisher with a small hose attached so we can direct it to the small fire hole in the companionway, although some yachts have a dedicated one for the engine bay, we also carry a extinguisher in a locker in the cockpit.

Also, on board we have three fire blankets one in the galley for any fires which may occur on or near the cooker, but more importantly one in each aft cabin as there is no fire escape and we teach how to use them when trying to pass a fire to aid your escape through a hatch.

There is also a lot of water all around (THE SEA) but be clear water does not mix with electricity very well and be mindful of free surface flooding.

Stay Safe.