Don’t let fires spoil your holiday, camping / boating trip or even a cook out in your backyard. A little caution is all that is necessary to keep your holiday from becoming a disaster.

Enjoy your boat. Don’t let fires or explosions mar your boating holiday or weekend. Each year the vessel population grows, increasing the number of fires and explosions aboard vessels. In B.C. last year there were 38 involved in fire. The damage loss was $937,000.00 and included 5 serious injuries. Of these fires, the majority were caused by electrical malfunctions and ignition of gasoline, propane, diesel fuel or alcohol fuels.

Most fires occur immediately after the vessel has been refueled. Most vessel fires can be prevented with common sense and proper precautions. Don’t let your vessel become a statistic this summer.

Before you fuel your vessel, extinguish smoking materials and shut off all motors, fans and heating equipment. Make sure the fueling nozzle is grounded to the fuel intake.

If you have a covered vessel, install a smoke alarm and test it each time you use the boat. Replace the smoke alarm battery at least once a year.

Don’t smoke when using gasoline or other fuels. Shut down engines, fans motors and heating equipment prior to fueling.

Don’t fill fuel tanks to maximum capacity; leave room in the tank for expansion of the fuel. Wipe up fuel spills immediately.

Don’t fill portable tanks in the boat; take them ashore or onto the fuel dock for filling. Wipe up any spillage before placing the tanks back aboard your vessel. After fueling, check the bilge for fuel leaks and odors and ventilate the bilge and engine compartments at least 5 minutes before starting the engine.

Use only stoves and heating equipment approved for marine use. Portable stoves and heaters are not safe. Have a minimum 5 lb. ABC dry chemical fire extinguisher readily available, in serviced condition and know how to use it before a fire.

Ensure that a smoke alarm is installed in your recreational vehicle, tent and your hotel/motel room. A 5 lb. ABC dry chemical should also be installed in each of your motor or recreational vehicles. Again; know how to use it before a fire!!!

The Saanich Peninsula Fire Departments want you to have a fire free summer. Please take these simple precautions and preparations to keep your family safe from the threat of fire this holiday season.