Equipment
2.7 Bailers, Fire Extinguishers and Flares
Bailers
Bailer regulations were recently updated. Remember, these are minimum requirements. You can never have enough on board.
A three inch hole, four feet underwater, will let 21,000 gallons of water into the boat every hour. Typical high capacity pumps will remove 3,700 gph, if they survive.
Fire Extinguishers
Class BC extinguishers are used for combustible liquid fires (oil & gas) and electrical fires. They are required on board. Operators should also look for extinguishers that include Class A ability.
Fire extinguishers must be approved by Transport Canada, Underwriters Laboratories of Canada, British Board of Trade for Marine Use or the United States Coast Guard for marine use.
Amarine-type extinguisher is recommended due to its corrosion resistance.
Dry chemical extinguishers tend to cake and should be turned upside down and shaken, about once each month. They include a gauge that indicates the condition of the charge. They must be tested every three years.
If you have a CO2 type extinguisher have it weighed annually and re-filled when it reaches 90 per cent capacity.
Halon extinguishers must be inspected regularly.
CO2 and Halon are gases. Use them with caution in enclosed spaces.
When using an extinguisher, aim at the base of the flames.
Coast Guard regulations are minimum requirements only.
Flares
Flares are discussed in Distress Signals. It is important to read the manufacturer's instructions before you use flares.
Expired flares should be disposed of properly...check with your local authorities.
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