If a fire is in the engine compartment, what action should be taken first?

• A. Open the engine compartment to vent smoke
• B. Immediately shut off the engines, generators, and ventilation systems
• C. Use water to cool engine components
• D. Move the vessel to windward

Answer: (B)

When a fire is in the engine compartment, the first move is to shut down all power and ventilation to starve the fire of fuel and oxygen. Turning off the engines, generators, and any ventilation stops fuel pumps from continuing to feed the fire and removes a key source of fresh air, which helps contain the blaze and reduces the risk of reignition or explosion. Opening the compartment to vent smoke would feed the fire by introducing more oxygen and spreading smoke. Using water in an enclosed space can be unsafe and may not reach the flames effectively, and moving the vessel to windward doesn’t address and may delay controlling the fire. After power is off, follow fire suppression procedures with the vessel crew and equipment.