Equipment - Fire Extinguishers
Most boats are required to have a Type B fire extinguisher(s)
onboard, in serviceable condition and readily available. The only
exceptions are:
- Any non-motorized boat
- Class A or Class 1 boats whose construction will not permit the
entrapment of flammable gases or vapors
Approved types of fire extinguishers are identified by the
following marking on the label "Marine Type USCG Approved",
followed by the size and type symbols and the approval number.
Extinguishers must be mounted in an accessible area. Check
extinguishers annually to make sure they are charged and be sure
you know how to operate them.
Use this chart to determine the type
and quantity required for your boat:
Fire
Extinguisher Requirements |
Classification | Foam | Carbon | Dry Chemical |
(type & size)
B-I
B-II | (minimum gallons)
1 1/4
2 1/2 | (minimum pounds)
4
15 | (minimum pounds)
2
10 |
Length Class | Without Fixed
System | With Fixed
System* |
Less than 16 ft.
(Class A) | 1 B-I | None |
16 ft. to less than 26 ft.
(Class 1) | 1 B-I | None |
26 ft. to less than 40 ft.
(Class 2) | 2 B-I or 1 B-II | 1 B-I |
40 ft. to less than 65 ft.
(Class 3) | 3 B-I or
1 B-II and 1 B-I | 2 B-I or
B-II |
* refers to a
permanently installed fire extinguisher system |
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