1-69Emergency ProceduresIn an emergency situation, you may have to resort to measureswhich are not commonly practiced. Always assess the dangers ofbeing in harm’s way versus the protection of equipment. Keep asound mind during an emergency and always use common sense.Explosion and FireMany boat fires and explosions involve flammable liquids such asgas or oil, which are used in your boat’s propulsion engine(s) andgenerator. Carefully follow all warning labels and safetyprecautions while handling flammable substances. Many fires ininboard boats start in the bilge area due to gasoline vapors.Gasoline vapors are heavier than air and collect in the bilge ofboats.Explosion• If explosion is imminent, put on PFDs, grab distresssignals and survival gear, and immediately abandon ship.Fire• Immediately turn off engines, generators, stoves andblowers.• Extinguish smoking materials.• A fixed fire suppression system, if equipped, has heatsensors that automatically flood the machinery space witha fire extinguishant. Allow extinguishant to “soak” thecompartment for at least 15 minutes to cool the hotmetals or fuel before cautiously inspecting the fire area.Have portable fire extinguishers ready. Do not breathefumes or vapors caused by the fire or extinguishant.• If no fixed fire suppression system is installed and a fire isin the engine compartment, discharge portable fireextinguishers through the engine compartment accessplate, if equipped. DO NOT open the engine hatch as thisfeeds oxygen to the fire.• If you have access to the fire, direct the contents of the fireextinguishers at the base of flames, not at the top.Boating Safety
