MOTC Manual - edited

Fire Classes
Some boat fires involve burning wood and paper (Class A) fires, these fires can be put out
with water. Do not use water on (Class B, or C) fires. Water causes gasoline and oil fires to
spread and electrical current is conducted through the water. For (Class D) fires it is usually
best if the material can be removed from the vessel.
Inspect Fire Extinguishers regularly and prior to each voyage. They should be
properly stored, charged and undamaged. Portable extinguishers should be mounted where
they are accessible and away from immediate fire areas. Check the gauge to make sure the
extinguisher is still charged; inspect the seals to make sure they have not been tampered
with. Dry chemical extinguishers should be agitated regularly to prevent the extinguishing
agent from compacting at the bottom of the cylinder, Replace cracked or broken hoses and
keep nozzles free from obstruction. CO2 extinguishers must be weighed to ensure that they
are good and serviceable.
If a fire extinguisher is discharged it should be immediatley removed from service
and replaced or recharged.
DOI – Motorboat Operator Certification Course Chapter 3 - 10