A new fire safety guide launching this week is aimed at promoting safer boating across Ireland’s inland waterways.
The initiative follows a number of serious vessel fires in recent years and seeks to raise awareness of the fire risks associated with boating while encouraging practical steps that can help prevent incidents before they occur.
A Boater’s Guide to Fire Safety, which will have its official launch this Tuesday 28 July, provides clear, practical advice for boat owners and users on such subjects as:
- Fitting and testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- Safe use and storage of LPG cylinders
- Electrical safety and battery charging
- Safe cooking and heating practices
- Fire extinguishers and fire blankets
- Developing a fire action plan
- Carrying out a simple nightly fire safety check before going to bed
The guide has been developed collaboratively by Waterways Ireland, Fire Safety Ireland, the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI) and the Heritage Boat Association, bringing together expertise in boating, fire prevention and waterway safety.
While fire incidents on the inland waterways remain relatively uncommon, even a small fire on board can escalate rapidly, making prevention and early detection critical.
By increasing awareness and encouraging simple preventative measures, the campaign aims to positively influence the behaviours of the many thousands of people who enjoy Ireland's inland waterways each year.
Peter Harty, inspector of navigation and maritime safety lead with Waterways Ireland says: “Fire on board a vessel can develop rapidly and, in the confined environment of a boat, the consequences can be devastating. Fortunately, many onboard fires are preventable through simple precautions and good planning.
“This guide has been developed to help boaters understand the risks and take practical steps to protect themselves, their passengers and their vessels.
“Waterways Ireland wishes to sincerely thank Fire Safety Ireland, the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland and the Heritage Boat Association for their expertise, collaboration and commitment in developing this important initiative. Through this partnership, the organisations aim to encourage safer behaviours, improve awareness of onboard fire risks and help ensure Ireland's inland waterways continue to be safe, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.”
Waterways Ireland encourages all boat owners, hirers, clubs and waterway users to download and read the guide before heading afloat.
Boaters requiring further information are encouraged to contact Waterways Ireland at [email protected]. Additional fire safety advice is available from www.fireireland.ie.
