Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/2107
feature 37 September 2009 Having the right extinguisher for the right area of the boat is critical accord- ing to BOATU.S.'s Chuck Fort, editor of their popular marine insurance and damage avoidance publication, Sea- worthy, and affectionately known at the headquarters as the "fire guy" and who has conducted real life field tests of ex- tinguishers. He also highly recommends for the operator (and guests) to know where extinguishers are along with how to use them fast if need be. Plus, always, always, have a plan. Readers can go to www.boatus.com/Seaworthy and read all about boat fires. In Why Boats Catch Fire statistics compiled from fire-related claims reports show 55 percent related to AC & DC wiring/appliances, 24 percent engine/transmission overheat, 8 per- cent fuel leak, 7 percent miscellaneous (spontaneous combustion of oily rags sometimes left around a dryer or other heat source, misdirected flares, etc.) and 5 percent unknown. Here's a recent case from South Florida. An onboard fire that rapidly erupted forced four people to jump into the waters of Biscayne Bay. The opera- tor threw engine tarps over the engine compartment, which bought them a few minutes time after the engine had quit and fire was noticed. The boat had just been in for work where a new electronic system was installed, but this is a whole other issue. However, the incident drives home the point of being ready for any eventuality. The vessel was a total loss. The Seattle Fire Department's Fire Prevention Division offers these tips for boat owners on fire prevention: * Regularly inspect electrical and fuel systems. Upgrade wiring to maintain the needs of your navigational and added equipment and other appliances. * Never leave operating electrical equipment, including heaters, unattended. * Mount fire extinguishers near an exit so you are moving toward an exit as you access them. * Routinely replace cordsets as those worn or overloaded and damaged shore power connections are a common cause of fires. They also publish guidelines for