×

SEARCH

Fire safety onboard boats

Co-authored by Peter Mansi
(Fire Investigations UK)

A boat is on fire in the ocean while a helicopter and a rescue boat approach. Plumes of smoke rise from the burning vessel.

A fire is one of the biggest potential disasters that can occur on a boat. The confined space and abundance of flammable materials, coupled with the unique marine environment, can create a perfect storm where fires can quickly become catastrophic. As a boat owner, making sure that you have the correct fire fighting equipment onboard is only part of the solution to minimising the risk. It’s also essential to make sure that you reduce the likelihood of fires starting in the first place.

If the worst should happen, having a well prepared crew who are familiar with the safety equipment you have on board, along with how to use it, can mean the difference between your boat limping back to the marina for repairs, or sinking beneath the waves.

Types of fire

A fire requires a combination of oxygen, fuel and heat to burn, often referred to as the fire or combustion triangle. Removing any one of these elements can extinguish a fire.

There are several different types of fire, which are classified according to their fuel source.

Class A fires involve ordinary combustibles like paper, wood, or textiles
Class B fires involve liquids such as oil, grease, diesel and petrol
Class C fires involve flammable gases
Class D fires involve metals such as magnesium or lithium
Class F fires involve cooking oils and fats

Electrical fires can be caused by electrical equipment such as TVs, hairdryers etc. Once the electrical item has been removed, or the supply isolated, the fire will fall into one of the above classifications as it is not the electricity that is burning, but the surrounding materials.

Common fire origins on yachts,
motorboats and narrowboats

There are several areas onboard where fires typically originate. Some of the more common one are:

Engine room

Fires on boats often originate in the engine room. The engine, fuel lines, generators, heating systems and other electrical systems are all potential sources of ignition, with the risk becoming even greater if they are not properly maintained. As engine rooms are enclosed spaces, a fire from a mechanical malfunction or fuel leak often goes unnoticed until it becomes well established, at which point it requires specialist firefighting, and the possibility of a catastrophic outcome becomes greater.

Electrical systems

Poor maintenance or misuse of electrical systems can result in faulty wiring or overloaded circuits. The resulting short circuit can cause serious damage, fire or even small scale explosions. Batteries can also be a cause of fires, especially if their connections have become damaged due to poor maintenance.

The galley

The galley is another common source of fires, where improper handling of cooking equipment and fuel sources can lead to ignition. Old or damaged gas pipes can easily provide a source of fuel for a fire, as well as electrical equipment such as fridges and microwaves.

Solid fuel stoves

Solid fuel stoves can often be found on narrowboats, where they become the heart of the boat, providing a vital source of heat, especially for those living aboard their boat. Poor maintenance of the stoves, along with the accumulation of combustible materials around them can easily lead to fires.

Heaters

Heaters, especially plug in bar type heaters typically used in older boats, are a potential source of ignition if they come into contact with bedding or other combustible materials.

Batteries

In recent years, with the growing popularity of electric bikes and scooters, that have been a number of fires caused by the batteries catching fire whilst charging. Unbranded, replacement batteries can often have inferior safety features compared to factory supplied batteries, the result of which can be fires or explosions when charging. Due to the nature and positioning of the batteries on bikes and scooters, they can become easily damaged, increasing the risk of them overheating, with the potential outcome being thermal runaway, explosion and fire. The highly flammable nature of these batteries, coupled with being left to charge at exit points or below decks, can be catastrophic.

Why fires onboard boats are so dangerous

Fires onboard boats present unique risks due to several factors.

Limited escape routes

Fires onboard boats can pose severe dangers, primarily because of the confined spaces and limited escape routes. When a fire breaks out, it can quickly fill the boat with smoke, making visibility and breathing difficult. This rapid spread of smoke and fire can quickly trap occupants, limiting their ability to escape safely. The fitting and periodic testing of smoke and heat detectors is highly recommended.

Rapid spread

Fires on boats can spread alarmingly quickly. Boats often contain significant amounts of flammable materials, including fuel, which can exacerbate fires. The presence of flammable gas for cooking as well as diesel and other flammable substances increases the risk of explosions and rapid fire spread. Engine rooms, which house both the engine and fuel systems, are particularly vulnerable due to potential fuel leaks and electrical malfunctions.

A partially burnt canal boat is taped off, lying in the water with visible fire damage, near a grassy and tree-lined bank.

A narrowboat fire can quickly spread throughout the boat, with catastrophic results

Burned debris of a boat remains on a concrete surface in a dockyard, with other boats in the background and barriers around the site.

The close proximity of yachts, especially when moored on the hard over winter, can quickly result in the spread of the fire from one boat to another. The surrounding yachts were extremely lucky not to be damaged as a result of this fire.

Spread to neighbouring boats

The danger of a fire spreading to neighbouring boats becomes a very real possibility when boats are tightly packed into a marina. If safe to do so, it may be possible to move surrounding boats to stop the fire spreading, or even tow the boats which is on fire out of the marina.

Environmental factors

Boat fires can release a variety of toxic and harmful substances into the atmosphere. When a boat burns, it emits smoke containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and other toxic gases. These airborne pollutants can cause significant air quality issues, especially in areas close to the fire. The smoke can also contain soot and particulate matter, which are harmful to both human health and the environment.

One of the most severe environmental impacts of a boat fire is water pollution. Firefighting efforts often involve the use of water or other extinguishing agents, which can carry pollutants into nearby water bodies. The runoff from the fire can include a range of harmful substances, such as fuel and oil, as well as the toxic chemicals from the boat’s build materials. These contaminants can severely impact aquatic ecosystems, harming fish and other wildlife, and potentially entering the human food chain.

The release of toxic substances from boat fires can have immediate and long-term effects on wildlife. Aquatic life is particularly vulnerable to waterborne pollutants, which can disrupt reproductive cycles and lead to long-term health issues or death.

Close-up of the charred interior of a burnt vehicle, showing extensive fire damage and exposed structural elements.

The combustible nature of the materials used to manufacture GRP boats helps fires to spread quickly through the boat, meaning that vessels are often a complete write off after a fire.

Difficulty in firefighting

Fighting a fire on a boat is significantly more challenging than on land. Access can be tricky, especially for those not used to the risks of walking around the marine environment. If moored, they can often be in hard-to-reach areas, such as along a tow path, where fire engines cannot reach.

Introducing huge amounts of water to fight a fire can also have a severe impact on the stability of the boat, which should be taken into account during the fire fighting.

The isolated nature of boating means that if a fire takes hold when you are out on the water, the situation can quickly get out of control, making abandoning ship and issuing a mayday your only choice.

Minimising the risks of fires onboard a boat

Ensuring fire safety on a boat involves a combination of regular maintenance, choice of equipment, vigilant operational practices, reviewing your fire plan, and having the right safety equipment available. The following actions can be carried out to help minimise the risk of a fire starting.

Regular maintenance

Carry out regular maintenance on board, including:

Engine – Regularly inspect and maintain the engine, fuel lines, and tanks. Look for signs of wear, leaks or damage, and ensure all components are securely fastened. Proper maintenance can prevent fuel leaks, which are a major fire hazard.

Electrical systems – Have a qualified marine electrician inspect the boat’s electrical systems regularly. Check for faulty wiring, corrosion, and ensure connections are secure. Avoid overloading circuits and use marine-rated electrical components.

Fuel storage – Store fuel in approved containers, in well-ventilated areas. Ensure that fuel lines are intact and that there are no leaks or degradation of the fuel lines. When refuelling, turn off all engines and electrical equipment to prevent sparks and ensure engine bay blowers are used for the correct amount of time following refuelling with petrol and before starting the engine.

Cooking appliances – Use marine-rated cooking appliances with built-in safety features such as flame failure devices. Turn off cooking appliances and close the gas shut off valve when not in use. Keep the cooking area clean and free of grease buildup, which can ignite easily.

Ventilation – Ensure proper ventilation in the engine room and other enclosed spaces to prevent the buildup of flammable vapours. Adequate ventilation reduces the risk of fuel and gas fumes igniting.

Solid fuel stoves – Ensure these are regularly maintained with an annual service. There should be adequate space (minimum of 300mm at the front) around the stove as per manufacturer’s instructions to reduce the risk of combustible materials catching fire through direct contact and radiated heat.

Electrical items used onboard

Any electrical item used onboard should comply with relevant regulations, and feature the UKCA marking (post-Brexit equivalent of the CE marking), which certifies that the equipment meets UK safety standards. The risk of fire or explosion from electrical equipment greatly increases if the item is damaged or in poor condition, if non manufacturer fitted batteries are used, or if the item is not manufactured to UK safety standards – so called “knock off” equipment. There is a further increased risk of fire when charging damaged or unbranded replacement batteries, such as those from cordless drills, electric bikes and e-scooters. Often these batteries are left charging unattended at exit points such as in the cockpit, amplifying the potential risks.

Charging bags, which can help to contain a fire or explosion, are available to purchase, although their use doesn’t negate the requirement to only charge under supervision, and not near an exit.

Close-up of a partially burned metal and wood structure with ashes and debris surrounding it.

Inadequate space left between a stove and combustible materials is a common cause of fires on narrowboats.

Storage of flammable liquids and gases on board

Whether it’s spare fuel for your outboard, or the Calor Gas bottles for your stove, there are often flammable liquids and gases kept onboard boats and it’s important that these are stowed appropriately. A dedicated locker above deck, that vents and drains outboard is essential and part of the Recreational Craft Directive. All flammable liquids should be stowed upright and secured to prevent them moving or becoming damaged, with a resultant flammable liquid spill occurring.

In the event of a suspected gas leak, it’s crucial to shut off the gas supply, evacuate the boat, extinguish naked flames and ignition sources (heaters/pilot lights etc) and ventilate the entire boat, including the bilges where the gas will accumulate. Do not operate any electrical items or switches if a gas leak is suspected, as these can be an ignition source.

Interior of a burned, charred room with debris and soot covering the surfaces, showing extensive fire damage.

The interior of a narrowboat showing severe fire damage to the entire contents of the boat.

Installation of safety equipment

Smoke, Carbon Monoxide and Gas alarms – install smoke alarms, carbon monoxide and gas detectors in key areas of the boat. Test these alarms regularly to ensure they are functioning properly.

Fire Extinguishers – equip the boat with appropriate fire extinguishers, and ensure they are easily accessible and maintained. Types of fire extinguishers, how many are needed and where to position them is discussed in the second part of this guide. Ensure dry powder extinguishers are regularly shaken to allow the powder to remain loose and free-flowing.

Fire Blankets – keep fire blankets in accessible locations, especially near cooking areas. Make sure that these are maintained as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Automatic Fire Suppression Systems – consider installing an automatic fire suppression system in the engine room. These systems can quickly detect and extinguish fires without human intervention, significantly reducing the risk of a fire spreading.

Preparing your crew

Develop and practice an emergency plan with all crew. Familiarise everyone with the location and proper use of fire extinguishers and emergency exits. For more information click below to read then next part of our ‘Fire safety onboard boats’ guide.

Fire extinguishers to have onboard

MEET THE EXPERT

A smiling man with gray hair in a suit and blue tie, outdoors with greenery in the background.

Peter Mansi

It is safe to say that Peter Mansi is an expert in all things fire and explosion related, both on and off the water. His expertise is highly sought after when it comes to fire related matters on boats, whether it’s the prevention of them, or the investigation of them.

Peter has had a long career in the fire industry. Over 40 years ago, he joined the London Fire Brigade, ultimately serving as Borough Commander of the City of London and Group Manager for the Fire Investigation Team. Moving into the private sector 12 years ago, Peter set up Fire Investigations UK, which specialise in fire investigations around the UK, Middle East and Europe. In that time he has been involved with numerous narrowboat, yacht, motorboat and super yacht fires, and has become the go to fire expert within the marine industry. Peter is a Certified Fire Investigator with the International Association of Arson Investigators, a Member of the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences and a Fellow of the Institution of Fire Engineers.

Find out more about Fire Investigations UK by visiting their website: Fire Investigations UK LLP

Sources

Fire in the environment | Fire Protection Association (thefpa.co.uk)
Environmental impact of fire | Fire Science Reviews | Full Text (springeropen.com)
A Guide to the Different Classes of Fire in the UK from A to F (firerisk.co.uk)
A Guide to Yacht Fire Safety Systems – Live Yachting
Everything you need to know about a yacht’s gas system – Yachting Monthly
Fire safety on boats (gov.uk)
Open fires and wood-burning stoves (defra.gov.uk)
Marine Fire Suppression Solutions | Keep Your Assets Protected (fireward.co.uk)
Fire Suppression System (marinefiresafety.co.uk)
Boat fire prevention: tips to stay safe – Practical Boat Owner (pbo.co.uk)
Gas Safety On Boats (rya.org.uk)

Why insure your boat with HK-J?

Boat insurance, shipshaped around you

Useful Links

Haven Knox-Johnston is a trading name of Howden UK Brokers Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No. 307663. Registered in England and Wales under company registration number 02831010. Registered Office: One Creechurch Place, London, EC3A 5AF. Calls may be monitored and recorded for quality assurance purposes.

Fire safety onboard boats

Types of fire

Common fire origins on yachts,motorboats and narrowboats

Why fires onboard boats are so dangerous

Minimising the risks of fires onboard a boat

MEET THE EXPERT

Peter Mansi

For enquiries, call us:

For a boat insurance quote:

Related News

Why insure your boat with HK-J?

Common fire origins on yachts,
motorboats and narrowboats