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Boat Safety

Boat Safety There are an increasing number of incidents each year involving fire, explosion and carbon monoxide poisoning. These incidents are causing deaths and injury to the boating community, threatening nearby properties and causing risk to Firefighters attending incidents.

Fire Risk

The cause of fire is varied, but could include:

Escape of gas from an LPG installation coming into contact with an ignition source resulting in fire/explosion.
Flammable vapours entering the accommodation space coming into contact with an ignition source resulting in fire/explosion.
Incorrectly installed heating appliances some of which are do-it-yourself installations.
Candles / cigarettes / etc positioned in proximity to combustible materials.

Escape Plans

Key safety messages:

Means of escape should be adequate and sufficient.
Means of escape should be clear and free from obstruction.
Means of escape should be free from trip/slip hazards.
Consider an alternative escape route in case the normal route gets blocked.
All doors or windows for means of escape should open easily in the event of a fire; keep keys to door and window locks handy.
If a window needs to be broken, use a heavy object to break the glass in the bottom corner, cover jagged edges of glass with a towel to avoid injury.
Plan ahead together prepare and agree an escape plan with those on board, including visitors.
In the event of a fire everyone should, stay calm and get off the boat as quickly as possible.
Everyone should keep low where the air is clearer.
If clothing catches fire, stop, drop and roll. Use a fire blanket to smother the flames.
Always try to remember the location of the boat; it will be essential information in the event of an emergency.
Do not go back onto the boat - GET OUT, STAY OUT and dial 999!

Book a Free Boat Safety Assessment

Fire officers from Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service can come to your boat to check for any fire risks and install free working smoke alarms where necessary.

Call 0800 389 0053 to request a check