What Size Fire Extinguisher Does a Boat Need & Where To Keep It

When it comes to boat safety, most people tend to think about life jackets, flares, and flotation devices. An often overlooked item is fire extinguishers.

The type, size, and placement of fire extinguishers for your boat depend on factors such as boat size, layout, and potential fire hazards. Proper selection and maintenance of these critical safety devices are a must for safe and enjoyable onboard experiences.

When Is a Boat Fire Extinguisher Necessary?

Texas does not require fire extinguishers for sailboats, canoes, or other non-motorized water vessels. Motorized boats must have one or more fire extinguishers on board to comply with safety regulations and be prepared in case of a fire emergency.

Recreational vessels under 26 feet require at least one B-I extinguisher.
Those between 26 and 40 feet require two B-I or a single B-II extinguisher.
Boats between 40 and 65 feet should have at least three B-I or one B-I and one B-II extinguishers.

Not having a fire extinguisher for your motorized boat can have serious consequences, with rapidly spreading flames putting people’s lives at risk and potentially destroying the boat.

What Size Fire Extinguisher Will Your Boat Need?

Amended regulations from the U.S. Coast Guard took effect on April 20, 2022. They set out which vessels must carry marine fire extinguishers. They include all recreational boats with:

One or more permanently installed fuel tanks.
Spaces that can trap fumes, such as closed under-seat compartments, a double bottom not entirely filled with flotation material, closed living spaces, and closed stowage compartments that store flammable materials.

The new rules also require boats built in 2018 and later to carry only 5-B and 20-B-rated fire extinguishers. Boats constructed between 1953 and 2017 can choose 5-B or 20-B extinguishers that haven’t expired or B-I or B-II extinguishers in good condition.

The type of fuel on board the boat is another factor to consider. Different fuels pose different fire risks and require specific extinguishing agents. For instance, some boats have multiple fuel types on board, like gasoline for the engine and propane for cooking.

Where Should a Boat’s Fire Extinguisher Be Kept?

Having a fire extinguisher on your boat is a good first step, but being able to quickly get to it when needed is critical to everyone’s safety.

What’s the best place to keep your fire extinguisher?

The short answer is to mount it in an easily accessible location. However, you don’t want to put it too close to the engine or fuel containers. Suggested areas are:

Near the helm
By the galley
Close to the cabin

Extinguishers should be clearly visible to everyone on board and must be mounted on a wall bracket or in a well-built wall cabinet.

Extinguishers under 40 pounds should be mounted no higher than 5 feet from the floor.
Extinguishers 40 pounds and over should be no higher than 3.5 feet from the floor.

Every capable person should be trained to use the fire extinguisher, ensuring there’s no delay in putting out potentially devastating flames.

Choose Kauffman Co. for Expert Fire Extinguisher Services

As one of the region’s most trusted providers of fire extinguishers, Kauffman Co. can help you choose the proper equipment for your boat. We offer a full range of fire extinguisher services that include:

Request a quote or schedule a consultation by calling us at (713) 893-1090.

Request Service