ABC Fire Extinguishers
ABC Fire Extinguishers
For ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical fires
Class D Fire Extinguishers
For combustible metals like magnesium, titanium, and sodium
Class K Fire Extinguishers
For commercial kitchen fires involving cooking oils and grease
Wheeled Fire Extinguishers
Large-capacity units for industrial settings and warehouses
Water Fire Extinguishers
For ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth
CO2 Fire Extinguishers
For electrical equipment and flammable liquids
Marine Fire Extinguishers
Coast Guard approved for boats and marine vessels
According to the USCG, all recreational boats with permanently installed fuel tanks, or spaces capable of trapping fumes, must have fire extinguishers readily available. This includes:
- Closed compartments under thwarts and seats where portable fuel tanks may be stored
- Double bottoms not sealed to the hull or not completely filled with flotation materials
- Closed living spaces
- Closed stowage compartments containing combustible or flammable materials
The number of extinguishers required depends on your vessel's length and whether a fixed suppression system is installed.
| Boat Length | No Fixed System Installed (# of 5-B extinguishers needed*) | Fixed System Installed (# of 5-B extinguishers needed) |
|---|---|---|
| Under 16 feet | 1 | 0 |
| 16 ft – under 26 ft | 1 | 0 |
| 26 ft – under 40 ft | 2 | 1 |
| 40 ft – under 65 ft | 3 | 2 |
For more information about specific requirements by the USCG, please refer to the Code of Federal Regulations - Subpart 162.028.
