U.S. Coast Guard Updates Fire Extinguisher Requirements

In a nutshell, if any disposable (nonrechargeable) fire extinguisher has a date of manufacture stamped on the bottle and it is older than 12 years, the extinguisher is now considered "expired," must be removed from service, and replaced. Additionally, while the new regulation doesn’t change the type (U.S. Coast Guard-rated), quantity, or requirement for fire extinguishers aboard, it does specify the minimum Underwriters Laboratories (UL) classification of extinguishers to be carried aboard certain vessels, depending on the boat’s model year. This is the result of phasing out older B-I and B-II labels for newer 5-B, 10-B and 20-B classifications.

Vessels less than 26 feet and model year 2017 or older may continue to carry dated or undated B-I or B-II disposable extinguishers. When no longer serviceable, or it’s been 12 years since manufacture, they must be replaced with newer class 5-B or greater extinguishers. Boats less than 26 feet and 2018 model year or later must carry unexpired 5-B, 10-B, or 20-B fire extinguishers. Older B-I and B-II types do not meet the new carriage requirements. Expired extinguishers may be carried aboard for backup but do not count toward the requirement.

Many retailers offer 10-B class fire extinguishers, which may be a good choice as they exceed U.S. Coast Guard minimum carriage requirements for boats under 26 feet while giving boaters more extinguishing coverage. For boats 26 feet or larger, however, having one 10-B aboard does not equal two 5-Bs.

Visit BoatUS.org/Fire to learn how many and what type of fire extinguishers are required aboard all recreational boats up to 65 feet. Still not sure if yours needs replacing? You’ll also find a helpful decision tree there to help you.