What type and how many fire extinguishers are aboard?

• A. One B-1 extinguisher for Type A fires only
• B. Two B-1 extinguishers capable of fighting Type A, B and C Fires
• C. Two ABC extinguishers for Type A, B and C
• D. Three B-2 extinguishers for Type B and C

Answer: (B)

You want a setup that provides reliable, multipurpose protection for the most common on-board fires and enough coverage to act quickly from different areas of the boat. On a 29-foot boat, the standard is two portable extinguishers that are rated to handle all three main fire classes you might encounter: ordinary combustibles (A), flammable liquids (B), and electrical (C). The B-1 designation describes the appropriate size and capability for a marine environment, giving you a compact unit that’s strong enough to handle small fires without being bulky. Having two of these ensures you can reach a fire in one part of the boat and still have another extinguisher accessible elsewhere or as a backup after the first is discharged.

The other options fall short for practical use. One extinguisher limited to Type A fires doesn’t address the more dangerous B and electrical fires you’re likely to encounter on a boat. Using two extinguishers without specifying the marine-appropriate B-1 size or rating can lead to under- or over-specification. And three larger B-2 units aren’t necessary for this vessel size and scenario.