Fire can occur on a boat therefore the passengers must be made well aware of the precautionary measures they need to take if some unfortunate circumstances like this happens. It is the duty of the captain to make all the people well aware of such emergency cases. Fire can break out because of various reasons that includes:
- Negligence (not shutting the leads properly)
- Fuel issues (improper fueling, fuel leakage etc)
- Smoking
- Environmental factors (light striking etc)
- Electricity errors (bad wiring, battery problems etc)
- Kitchen related issues (unattended cooking, cooking utensils etc)
- Steps to take if fire breaks out:
There are some immediate steps that must be taken for ceasing the fire from catching everything. Everyone must be regulated to follow these instructions. The instructions are explained below:
- Do not panic. Panicking is the last thing expected in such situations. Person must have his head clear of all the blurry thoughts and should think straightly about what has to be done. Only then he/she can ensure their safety and the safety of all the other boaters.
- Stop the movement of the boat. Suppose the fire has broken out because of certain fuel issues and the boat continue boating then it can be very hazardous. It will add fuel to the fire in a literal and metaphorical sense. Thetefore boat must be stopped. Stopping the boat will reduce the risk of the spread of the fire quickly all over the boat.
- Everyone should be informed about the burning fire. This can be done through a shout or calling out “Fire!”. It will attain everyone’s attention and people will be made aware of the situation in no time.
- It must be made sure that everybody is wearing the PFDs or the life jackets. In case if they have to go in the water, the life jacket will serve the purpose to keep them safe and sound.
- Keep a fair distance between yourself and the fire. The extent of fire must be noted. It must be considered if the fire is low and can be handled quickly or if an outside assistance will be needed.
- Look for the fire extinguisher. Every boat has a fire extinguisher for dealing with such emergency purposes. The fire extinguisher should be aimed at the fire and discharged.
- Emergency services must be informed immediately either through the VHF radio or if one do not have possession of this radio then a call though mobile should be made to the emergency services.
- If the fire is getting too out of hand then everyone must be prepared to leave the boat. They already have their life jackets on by that time.
- Wait for the rescue team to arrive.
- Conclusion:
Break down of a fire can be an incident that must be accepted. Everyone zhould be mentally prepared and confident. Preventive measures must be taken but in case of emergency, the situation should be dealt.