Every year, hundreds of people who love spending time on the water suffer through the experience of their boat catching fire. The fear that passengers encounter is attributed to exploding fuel tanks, vigorously burning fiberglass, and a number of other untimely consequences. While boat insurance policies protect our investment against this, it pays to understand the most common causes of fires on our vessels and know what you can do to prevent them.
Boat Fire Facts
According to numerous boat insurance companies, fire was ranked in the top 5 causes of all boat losses. Interestingly enough, they typically start in only a few select areas of the vessel, many of which start in the engine compartment where it is most likely that fuels and ignition sources commonly come together. The best way to prevent boat fires is by properly maintaining it along with respecting the electrical and fuel systems. It has been said that if everyone paid attention to fire safety, 1/3 of the annual number of boat fires could easily be prevented.
3 Primary Causes of Boat Fires
Electrical issues – you want to inspect your electrical system on a regular basis. Look for signs of corrosion, cracking, discoloring, and any wiring that looks compromised. Be sure to scrub off any minor corrosion you spot on the electrical connections. Just keep in mind that corrosion can be indicative of overheating and poor wiring connections. It may also mean that you need to call an electrical repair technician for help. You should never leave anything electrical running if it is unattended like portable heaters brought on board in colder weather.
Fire safety equipment – make sure that your boat is equipped with the proper number, size, and type of Coast Guard recommended fire extinguishers. Make sure that you have learned how to properly use them as well as when to inspect them and replacing them when it is needed.
Position your fire extinguishers near exits so you’re able to evacuate the boat quickly if needed. If you want added protection, have the upholstery on your boat covered with a fire retardant material. Having your boat equipped with additional safety features may make you eligible for a discount on your boat insurance policy. And it keeps everyone aboard safe.
Fueling and everything associated with it – while we all know that gasoline is highly flammable so don’t throw caution to the wind as a little bit of it can avoid the devastation that comes with a boat fire. Before you begin fueling, have your passengers step off your boat and quit smoking until you are finished. Furthermore, make sure that the hatches are closed and that you have turned off anything electrical and the engine. Be sure to clean up any gasoline that has accidentally spilled. Be sure to follow any other safety precautions that are recommended.
Call 1-800-585-1665 today to request a quote from InsureAnyBoat.com.