This week is boat fire safety week. The boat fire safety advisor from Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service will be visiting boaters along the Kennet and Avon Canal to give free smoke detectors and fire safety advice. Rob Buckland, who used to live on a narrowboat, will also give advice on the dangers of carbon monoxide. There were two tragic incidents in England earlier this year where boaters died becuase of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Advice on general boat fire safety includes:
Fitting a suitable smoke detector;
Making a fire action plan;
Taking extreme care when refuelling with petrol or changing gas cylinders;
Avoiding using portable gas equipment on-board, where possible, and storing all gas canisters in special gas lockers or open places where any leaks will flow overboard;
Checking items such as battery terminals and fuse box connections routinely for damaged strands or signs of overheating;
Taking care when doing repairs, and keeping interiors well ventilated when using adhesives, paints and spirit-based products;
Always keeping your eye on a solid fuel stove when it’s lit and trying to avoid leaving the boat with the stove running.
To arrange a boat fire safety visit, call Rob Buckland on 07734 483880 or email rob.buckland@wiltsfire.gov.uk. Or stop and chat to him on the towpath.
Tags: carbon monoxide, Fire safety, Lifestyle, liveaboards, Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service