Fire extinguishers are one of the few things federal rules require aboard a US recreational boat. Subpart E of 33 CFR 175 says how many, what rating, and what condition they must be in. Its condition rules are what surveyors check against.
What it covers
Section 175.301: recreational vessels propelled or controlled by machinery. Boats built model year 2017 or earlier follow the rules for older boats in 175.380.
Up to 65 feet, table 1 to 175.320(a)(1):
| Length | 5-B extinguishers, no fixed system | With a fixed system in the machinery space |
|---|---|---|
| Under 16 feet | 1 | 0 |
| 16 to under 26 feet | 1 | 0 |
| 26 to under 40 feet | 2 | 1 |
| 40 to 65 feet | 3 | 2 |
One 20-B may replace two 5-B. An outboard boat under 26 feet is exempt if it can't trap explosive or flammable vapours. Table 2 lists what removes the exemption: closed compartments under thwarts and seats where portable tanks may be stowed, double bottoms not sealed or filled with flotation, closed living spaces, closed stowage of flammables, and permanently installed fuel tanks.
Over 65 feet. 20-B extinguishers by gross tonnage, from one up to 50 tons to eight over 1,000, plus one 20-B in the machinery space for each 1,000 brake horsepower, up to six.
What surveyors check against it
Number and rating. Count the extinguishers and read their ratings against the table for the boat's length and whether there's a fixed system.
Condition. Section 175.310: aboard and readily accessible, approved, not expired or used, gauge in the operable range, lock pin firmly in place, nozzle clean, no significant corrosion or damage.
Older boats. Under 175.380, boats built model year 2017 or earlier can keep lower-rated extinguishers installed before, if in good condition. Anything installed since must meet the current rules.
Commercial use. Uninspected commercial vessels follow the same length table in 46 CFR 25.30-20. Small passenger vessels follow Subchapter T.
See expired fire extinguishers.
Citing it in a finding
"Two 5-B extinguishers required for a vessel of 26 to under 40 feet without a fixed system, 33 CFR 175.320 table 1; one aboard. Fit a second approved 5-B extinguisher before the vessel is next underway." Record each extinguisher's rating, date, gauge and location.