If a fire starts while your boat is underway, what should be your first action?

When a fire starts on a boat that is underway, the first and most crucial step is to stop the engine immediately. This action serves multiple purposes: it reduces the risk of the fire spreading, as the engine can potentially add fuel to the fire or create additional hazards, such as emissions or explosions.

Additionally, stopping the engine allows for a clearer and more controlled response to the situation. It avoids any complications that could arise from the engine continuing to run while trying to manage the fire. Once the engine is off, it is safer to assess the fire and decide on further actions, such as calling for help, positioning the boat, or attempting to extinguish the flames if it is safe to do so.

Calling for help should be done subsequently, as it’s important to get assistance while managing the fire. Positioning the boat towards shore makes sense in regard to planning for an evacuation or seeking safety, but this step comes after ensuring the engine is off. Throwing water on the fire can sometimes be ineffective, especially if the flames are fueled by flammable liquids, and can even exacerbate the situation. Thus, halting the engine is the most prudent initial step in such emergencies.