CHAPTER 5
5-28
EMERGENCIES
Always be ready to help others on the water if possible, but do not
take any unnecessary risks. Use equipment to save a life, but do not
risk a life to save equipment. Consult earlier information in this manual
concerning accidents, etc. Also, read other literature concerning on the
water emergencies. Be alert and prepared!
Fire
Fire aboard a vessel can spread quickly and can cause tremendous alarm
among everyone. Most fi res can be prevented by keeping the bilge free
from oil and debris. Keep all equipment stowed and maintained in
working order. Carry a backup fi re extinguisher on board. If something
becomes a possible fi re hazard, remove that possibility at once.
Never use water on gasoline, oil or electrical fi res. When you dump
water on an electrical fi re a you can be shocked since water conducts
electricity.
Follow these instructions if a fi re breaks out:
A. Fit everyone aboard with a life jacket. Turn off the ignition.
B. Try to keep the fi re downwind. If the fi re is to the stern, head the
bow toward the wind. If forward, put the stern to the wind.
C. If the engine should catch fi re, shut off the fuel supply Usually
there is a fuel tank access that you can crimp the fuel feed line.
D. Use a hand fi re extinguisher. Make sure to point it at the base of
the fl ames. Use short bursts and sweep the extinguisher side to side.
Remember : (4 lb. extinguisher discharges in 20 seconds)
These actions help prevent the fi re from spreading to other parts of
the boat. You can extinguish fi res quickly if you act swiftly. Have a plan
of action in motion in case a fi re breaks out.
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