Fire can spread rapidly on a boat—even surrounded by water. Since April 2021 we have attended 16 incidents involving houseboats, nearly half of those were fires.
Sadly, in 60% of those fires, the boats were completely destroyed. And only 40% of the boats had a working smoke alarm on board.
As we mark Boat Fire Safety Week (26 May to 1 June 2025), follow these essential tips to protect yourself, your passengers, and your crafts.
Fire Prevention Essentials
– Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to detect danger early.
– Always turn off cooking appliances completely after use.
–Dispose of cigarettes properly—make sure they are fully extinguished.
– Regularly check and maintain your boat’s fuel, gas, and electrical systems.
– Ensure appliances are installed and serviced by qualified professionals.
– Create an emergency plan and discuss it with everyone on board before departing.
– Keep a fire extinguisher handy to manage small fires or assist in a safe escape.
– If in doubt, don’t tackle a fire yourself – get out, stay out, and call 999.
If a Fire Breaks Out
– Evacuate immediately,don’t fight a fire yourself. Call 999.
– Avoid smoke-filled space if trapped, stay low where the air is clearer.
– If you need to break glass to escape, use a blanket to prevent injury.
– Limit airflow to the fire, avoid opening hatches or doors unnecessarily.
– If moored near land, move everyone off the boat and call 999 immediately.
Safe Boating at Night
The risk of fire is greater when you’re asleep, so adopting these nighttime safety habits is crucial:
– Ensure emergency valves and switches are accessible and everyone knows how to operate them.
– Double-check that all cooking and heating appliance are switched off, and candles and cigarettes are completely extinguished.
– Keep a working torch nearby for emergencies—and test it regularly.
– Don’t rely solely on a mobile phone as your emergency tool—it may not work in certain conditions.
– Have enough life jackets for everyone onboard and keep them in good condition.
– Keep exits clear and ensure keys are within reach—doors and hatches should never be locked or bolted from the outside.
– Track your location so emergency responders can find you quickly if needed.
– Prepare a ‘grab-bag’ with essentials you’d need in an emergency.
Carbon Monoxide Awareness
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a serious risk on boats—fatal in minutes if undetected. Boats are designed to keep water out, but this can also trap dangerous gases inside. Be alert to the symptoms of CO poisoning:
– Headache and irritability
– Dizziness and nausea
– Confusion and exhaustion
– Stomach pain and vomiting
Refueling Safely
– Turn off the engine before refueling.
– Ensure all naked flames are extinguished before handling fuel.
– Clear the boat of all passengers before refueling.
– Close doors and raise awnings to prevent petrol vapors from accumulating.
-Avoid fuel spills and never transfer petrol on board, in a lock, or near other boats.
Gas Safety Tips
If you smell gas onboard, act fast:
– Shut off the isolation valve and ventilate by opening windows, hatches, and doors.
– Turn off the engine immediately.
– Extinguish all naked flames, including pilot lights.
– Avoid switching electrical appliances on or off.
– Evacuate the boat if possible.
Stay safe on the water and make fire prevention a priority. For more fire safety resources, visit
Fire Safety For Boats | Boat Safety Scheme | Go Boating – Stay Safe
