Hereford and Worcester fire service reminding people with boats to check they are 'fire safe'
Its part of their message in the national Fire Kills Campaign’s Boat Fire Safety Week ahead of the boating season
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue is calling for people with boats to make sure they have suitable smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in place in time for the boating season.
The emergency service is highlighting the message as part of the national Fire Kills Campaign’s Boat Fire Safety Week.
John Elsworth says while the chances of a fire are low, its important people are still prepared and are following the fire safety guidlines.
He said: "Boat safety advice is extremely similar to the fire safety advice we would give to people that live in houses.
"If you are unlucky enough after taking all the precautions to still have a fire, which can happen, these safety precautions will ensure yourself and all family members will be entirely safe.
"Hereford and Worcester fire service have also formed a partnership with the six largest marinas within Worcestershire to create a direct link between them and the service for any extra advice and support that the residents might need."
Some of the safety guidance from the fire service is listed below:
• Make sure you know your boat and make a fire action plan with everyone in the boat.
• Fit a smoke alarm that meets British Standard BS5446 Part 1 and carries an approval mark such as ‘kitemark’.
• Fit a gas and petrol vapour detector alarm in the bilge and even in the cabin space to give you early warnings of dangerous build-ups of explosive gases.
• Check all appliances are turned off and, if possible, close the valve on the LPG cylinders before you go to bed or leave the boat.
• Never leave a burning candle unattended.  Make sure they are put out safely.
• Keep candles, matches, lighters and other sources of flame out of reach of children.
• Make sure cigarettes are put out safely – use metal ashtrays.  Avoid falling asleep with a lit cigarette – never smoke in bed.
• Never leave a hot hob unattended especially when cooking with oil or fat.
• Don’t fit curtains or fabrics over hob burners and don’t dry tea towels or clothes over a cooker or hob.
Further advice can also be found on their website.