Importance of installing smoke alarms on your vessel
While not legally required, installing smoke alarms on your vessel is an easy and inexpensive way to significantly enhance safety for your family and guests. Unlike homes, schools, workplaces, and public transportation, smoke alarms are not mandated aboard recreational vessels. However, these economical, life-saving devices can be your first line of defence against the dangers of fire and toxic smoke from modern boatbuilding materials.
Fire risks on vessels
Fires on unoccupied boats in marinas cause substantial losses annually, according to marine insurance companies. Fires during propulsion are also significant risks, presenting considerable personal danger. Installing a smoke alarm on your vessel provides early warning, allowing you to manage a fire during its initial stages.
Causes of boat fires
Club Marine Insurance states that over half of marine fire claims in recent years were due to electrical issues, often caused by owners attempting DIY repairs. Licensed electricians should perform all electrical work to ensure safety. Hydrogen gas from batteries and fuel vapours are leading causes of boating fires, with fuel being the most common.
Carbon monoxide risks
In addition to smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors are essential on vessels where people sleep. Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, tasteless gas from incomplete combustion of carbon compounds. Smoke, a visible suspension of particles, typically results from fires. Gas releases or fires can occur at any time, including while you sleep, rendering you unconscious in seconds. Without a smoke alarm on your vessel, you can’t respond to emergencies like:
- Cooking incidents
- Faulty wiring
- Poorly maintained mechanical systems
- Battery faults
- Fuel vapours
- Gas system faults
Recommended installation locations for smoke alarms on your vessel
Install a smoke alarm in each of the following locations on your vessel for optimal safety:
- Galley
- Accommodation spaces
- Above the electrical panel
- Engine room
Regularly check each smoke alarm on your vessel to ensure proper operation. By doing so, you safeguard against potential fire hazards and ensure a safer boating experience for everyone onboard.
