If a fire is out of control, what should you do?

• A. Abandon the boat, get clear of the fire, but stay in the vicinity as it will help rescuers locate you
• B. Stay aboard and fight with more extinguishers
• C. Jump into the water without a life jacket
• D. Ignore the fire

Answer: (A)

When a fire on a boat is out of control, your safety comes first: abandon the vessel and move well away from the flames rather than trying to fight a blaze you can’t contain. Large fires can cut off exits, fill the area with heat and smoke, and flare up suddenly, making it unsafe to stay aboard. After you’ve left, stay in the vicinity so rescuers can locate you more easily. Wear a life jacket and use any distress signals to help responders find you quickly. Ignoring the fire or staying aboard to fight it without the means to do so safely would put you at greater risk.