Over the holiday period, the marina team responded to a fire on a visiting vessel. The skipper woke to smoke in the cabin and raised the alarm straight away. Emergency services attended, the fire was contained and no one was hurt. The likely cause was a faulty wire in the cabin.
Fires on board can spread quickly, especially at night, when you are asleep and slower to notice smoke. A working smoke alarm gives you the early warning you need to get out and respond.
What we recommend
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms: fit them in cabins and sleeping areas, particularly if you live aboard. Marine alarms are available, and many standard photoelectric household alarms also work well on board.
- Electrical checks: have wiring, chargers, battery systems, extension leads and portable appliances checked regularly for wear, corrosion, overheating or loose connections.
- Circuits: avoid overloading them, and use marine-grade electrical components where you can.
- Fire extinguishers: keep suitable extinguishers on board, within easy reach and within their service date.
An EWOF lets you connect to marina power, but it does not replace ongoing maintenance of your vessel’s own electrical system. Faults can develop out of sight, and an inspection by a qualified marine electrician is the most reliable way to find them before they cause an incident.
The marina team monitors safety risks in common areas, but electrical safety on board is each owner’s responsibility. If your vessel has not been inspected recently, we recommend booking an assessment.