Fire Onboard

Our colleagues at our sister marina in Conwy Marina, North Wales recently had a traumatic incident to deal with when a boat caught fire.

While we hope to never face such a situation, it's crucial that we all have a plan in case of an emergency, especially a fire onboard.

Have You Considered Your Fire Plan? In the face of an emergency, knowing what to do can make all the difference. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-time boat owner, having a fire plan is essential. Here are the key points to remember if a fire starts onboard:

Switch Off Fuel and Gas: If possible, immediately turn off the fuel and gas supply to prevent the fire from spreading.

Safety First: Move as far away from the fire as possible while staying on deck. Ensure that everyone onboard is wearing a lifejacket.

Call for Help: If you're berthed up at the marina, evacuate the boat and dial 999 immediately. Don't hesitate; prompt action is crucial.

 A Marina Fire 

• If it's safe to do so, isolate gas and fuel supplies on your boat.
• Evacuate the vessel, ensuring everyone wears a lifejacket.
• Call the Fire and Rescue Service on 999.
• Contact the marina on VHF 80 or by phone at 01305 866190·
• Inform neighboring vessels.
• Only attempt to tackle the fire if it's safe to do so, keeping your safety a top priority.

A Fire at Sea 

• Prioritize safety; only tackle the fire if it's safe.
• Put out a Mayday on VHF 16, remember to provide; Position, Problem, People, Progress.
• Ensure everyone is wearing a lifejacket.
• Prepare to abandon the boat, gather your emergency grab bag (including flares, VHF radio, compass), and ready the life raft.
• If safe, isolate gas and fuel supplies.
• If it's an engine fire, do not open the engine panel unless necessary, as this could fuel the fire.
• Abandon the boat as a last resort.

Help Us Help You

To assist the Fire & Rescue Service in the event of a fire emergency, we maintain a register of hazardous materials onboard your boat. We liaise with our local fire team regularly to ensure the fastest response possible in the event of a incident. If you haven't already completed a form, pop into the marina office to pick one up.

Let's all be proactive in our approach to fire safety, so we can continue to enjoy our time on the water with peace of mind.