What is the best practice for fire prevention on vessels?

Regular inspections and maintenance of fire safety equipment are essential for ensuring that all fire prevention systems and equipment are operational and effective. Equipment such as fire extinguishers, fire hoses, and sprinkler systems can malfunction if not properly maintained, which could lead to a delay or failure in responding to a fire emergency. By routinely checking and maintaining these tools, crews can identify potential issues before they become critical, ensuring that the vessel is always prepared to handle fire emergencies.

While installing additional smoke alarms and improving crew communication during drills can contribute to fire safety, the foundational element of fire prevention is to ensure that the existing fire safety equipment is reliable and in excellent working order. Limiting access to hazardous materials is also an important practice, but without the reliability of fire safety equipment, the risk of a fire occurring may not be adequately mitigated. Regular inspections serve as a proactive measure to prevent fire hazards from worsening or going unnoticed.