According to 46 CFR 25.30, marine-type fire extinguishers approved by U.S Coast Guard under code of federal regulations are required on boats where a fire hazard could be expected from the engines or the fuel system. These fire extinguishers are classified by a letter and number symbol. The number indicates the amount of extinguishing agent stored in the extinguisher. The higher the number, the greater the amount of agent the extinguisher contains. The letter, on the other hand, indicates the type of fire the unit is designed to extinguish. For example, Type B is designed to extinguish flaming liquids, such as gasoline, oil, and grease.
The fire extinguishers are hand-portable, having either B-I or B-II classification. They must be provided with a mounting bracket. While not compulsory, it is recommended that the extinguishers are mounted in a readily accessible location, so that they can be put to use immediately. Keep the extinguishers at or near the steering station, or in the galley or engine room. Avoid installing them in a location where a fire can take place.
Because one extinguisher can be approved for several different types of fires (A, B, or C), markings on extinguisher can be confusing. An extinguisher marked “Type A, Size II; Type B; C, Size I”, for example, is acceptable as a Type B-I extinguisher. Check the section of the label that states “Marine Type USCG, Type A, Size II; Type B; C Size I.” You need to make sure that Type B is indicated. Hand-portable extinguishers should be either of Size I or II. Size III and larger are too big for use on most recreational boats.
To know more about the code of federal regulations that governs the U.S. maritime industry, download charts and books containing these regulations.
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