CO2 Fire Extinguishers

USCG Marine Fire Extinguisher Requirements for Boats | Compliance Guide

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
*One 20-B extinguisher may be swapped for two 5-B extinguishers. A 10-B extinguisher is effectively a 5-B extinguisher according to USCG guidelines.

For more information about specific requirements by the USCG, please refer to the Code of Federal Regulations - Subpart 162.028.

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