7 fire fighting equipment on board

Fire equipment on board is essential to ensure the safety of crew and passengers in case of a fire emergency. There are various types of fire equipment on board a vessel, and each plays a crucial role in controlling and extinguishing a fire. Here is a complete explanation of the fire equipment on board:



  1. Fire Extinguishers: Fire extinguishers are the most basic firefighting equipment that must be on board any vessel. They come in different types and sizes, depending on the class of fire they are designed to extinguish. The most common types of fire extinguishers are dry powder, CO2, and foam. Fire extinguishers should be distributed throughout the vessel, and their locations should be clearly marked.
  2. Fire Hose and Nozzles: Fire hoses and nozzles are used to extinguish larger fires on board vessels. The hoses should be of sufficient length to reach all parts of the vessel, and the nozzles should be adjustable to control the flow of water. The firefighting team should be trained in the proper use of fire hoses and nozzles.
  3. Firefighting Foam: Firefighting foam is a specialized firefighting agent that is used to extinguish fires involving flammable liquids, such as oil and gasoline. The foam creates a barrier between the fuel and the oxygen, cutting off the fire's fuel supply. The firefighting team should be trained in the proper use of firefighting foam.
  4. Fire Blankets: Fire blankets are used to extinguish fires involving small objects or clothing. They are made of fire-resistant material and can be used to smother the fire or to wrap around a person who is on fire. Fire blankets should be readily available in areas where fires are most likely to occur.
  5. Breathing Apparatus: Breathing apparatus, such as self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), is necessary for firefighters who are entering an area with smoke or toxic fumes. The breathing apparatus provides clean air to the firefighter, allowing them to work in a hazardous environment safely.
  6. Fire Detection and Alarm System: Fire detection and alarm systems are essential to alert the crew and passengers in case of a fire. The system should be regularly tested and maintained to ensure that it is functioning correctly. Smoke detectors and heat detectors are the most common types of fire detection systems.
  7. Fire Suppression System: Fire suppression systems, such as sprinkler systems, are automated firefighting systems that can quickly extinguish fires. They are especially useful in areas where fires may occur, such as the engine room or the galley. Fire suppression systems work by automatically detecting a fire and releasing water or other firefighting agents to extinguish the fire.

In addition to the above firefighting equipment, regular fire drills and crew training are essential to ensure that the crew is familiar with the firefighting equipment and knows how to respond to a fire emergency. Regular maintenance of firefighting equipment is also crucial to ensure that it is functioning correctly in case of a fire emergency. Proper fire safety procedures and equipment on board are crucial to ensure the safety of crew and passengers in case of a fire emergency