BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

Boat fires can be caused by a number of factors including engine malfunctions, electrical fires, or insufficient ventilation of enclosed areas.

If a fire or explosion occurs, you can lessen the severity of the emergency by having the mandatory fire-fighting equipment on your boat, maintaining it regularly, and keeping it readily accessible.

Remember: When you’re fighting a fire, always keep at least one metre back from the flames, and use the P.A.S.S. method to fight the fire quickly, and safely!

How to use the P.A.S.S. method:

• Pull the safety pin on the handle of the fire extinguisher
• Aim at the base of the flames
• Squeeze the handle
• Sweep the fire by spraying from left to right in a sweeping motion

Always make sure that the fire extinguisher you’re using is suitable for the type of fire you are trying to put out.