When must you carry a fire extinguisher on board?

Carrying a fire extinguisher on board is essential for safety, particularly in boats with motors that have enclosed engine compartments. These compartments can trap heat and fumes, creating a significant fire hazard. If a fire were to break out in such an area, a fire extinguisher would be crucial for preventing a small incident from escalating into a larger emergency. Therefore, the regulation emphasizes the necessity of having a fire extinguisher on board any vessel fitted with an enclosed engine compartment to ensure the safety of everyone on the water.

Other scenarios, like traveling at night or being in open waters, do not inherently necessitate the presence of a fire extinguisher as a general rule, nor is it always a requirement for every boat type regardless of its features. The specific focus is on motorized boats with enclosed engine spaces, highlighting the increased risk they face compared to other vessel types.