What should you do if there is a fire erupting on your boat?

Positioning the boat downwind from the fire is an essential safety measure when dealing with a fire on board. This action allows you to avoid inhaling smoke and toxic fumes that can be released during a fire. Being downwind also reduces the chance of the flames spreading toward you or your escape route, providing a safer environment for either extinguishing the fire or evacuating the vessel.

When confronting a potentially dangerous situation like a fire, it’s critical to prioritize safety, which includes being mindful of wind direction and smoke movement. By moving downwind, you gain a tactical advantage in dealing with the emergency, allowing you to assess the situation more clearly and decide on the best course of action, whether that’s attempting to fight the fire or evacuating the vessel safely.