Key Points
- Alert Others: The moment you see a fire, shout “FIRE! FIRE! FIRE!” loudly to alert everyone on board, especially the Captain. Call MAYDAY on VHF.
- Assign Roles: The Captain will assign someone to helm, lookout, radio, first aid, engine room, grab bag deployment, etc.
- Identify Type of Fire: Is it small and contained? Or is it large and spreading quickly? Electrical, fuel, or solid?
- Attack Fire: Use the appropriate extinguisher and/or fire blanket.
- Crew in Safe Place: Usually outside, windward (upwind of the fire).
- Safety First: Never put yourself in danger.
- Know Your Boat: The Captain will point out all fire safety equipment and evacuation routes during your safety briefing. Check the Security Map.
- Prepare for abandonment if fire is uncontrollable.
Fire Extinguishers — The “PASS” Method
Most portable fire extinguishers on boats are multi-purpose (rated A, B, C). The easiest way to remember how to use one is the PASS method:
- P — Pull the Pin: There’s a safety pin at the top of the extinguisher. Pull it out to unlock the handle.
- A — Aim at the Base: Don’t aim at the flames themselves! Aim the nozzle or hose at the very bottom of the fire, where the fuel is.
- S — Squeeze the Handle: Press the handle down firmly to release the extinguishing agent.
- S — Sweep Side to Side: Move the nozzle from side to side, sweeping across the base of the fire until it appears to be out.
When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
- For small, contained fires
- If you can safely approach the fire without putting yourself at risk
- Always have an escape route behind you
- If the fire is too large or spreading quickly, get out!
Fire Blanket
Fire blankets are excellent for smothering small fires, especially those involving cooking oil or grease in the galley. They work by cutting off the oxygen supply.
- Locate: The fire blanket is in a quick-release pouch, usually near the galley (kitchen area), but not directly above the stove.
- Pull Down: Grab the two tabs at the bottom. Pull them down and outwards to unfold the blanket.
- Protect Your Hands: Keep the blanket between you and the fire, covering the back of your hands.
- Smother the Fire: Carefully place the blanket over the entire fire, making sure it completely covers the flames and the source.
- Leave It: Do NOT lift the blanket immediately. Leave it in place for at least 20 minutes to allow the fire to cool completely and prevent re-ignition.
- Cut the Fuel: If it’s a galley fire and safe to do so, turn off the heat source (stove, oven).
Fire Classes (ABC)
Fire extinguishers on Melody are multi-purpose ABC rated, covering:
| Class | Fuel Type | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| A | Ordinary combustibles | Wood, paper, cloth, plastics |
| B | Flammable liquids & gases | Diesel, oil, paints, propane |
| C | Energized electrical equipment | Wiring, electronics, appliances |
Never use water on a Class C (electrical) fire unless the power has been completely shut off.
On a boat like Melody, you have a mix of all three — wood and fabrics (A), diesel fuel and engine oil (B), and navigation electronics and wiring (C) — which is why multi-purpose ABC extinguishers are essential.