Crew on hand for Boat Fire Safety Week

For people who live or work on the Kennet and Avon Canal, firefighters will be at the Bridge Tea Rooms, off Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon, on May 30 from 10am-3pm.

National figures show that more than 60 boaters have been killed in the last 20 years as a result of a boat fire or carbon monoxide incident - some of which have happened on the K&A Canal.

The week runs from May 28 to June 1. Firefighters will also be at Devizes Wharf on May 29 and at the Waterfront, Pewsey, on May 31.

“Boat Fire Safety Week is an opportunity for us to run a concerted campaign and hopefully reach as many people as possible,” said Tom Brolan, who is coordinating the campaign.

CO poisoning is most likely to be caused by the exhaust emissions of portable generators, or problems with solid fuel stoves including flue pipes.

Mr Brolan added: “We know that boats carry a very high fire risk, and it is vital that boaters do all they can to protect themselves. Firefighters do travel along the towpath when they can.

“As well as offering fire safety advice, and fitting smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms as required, we will also be reminding boaters of the importance of knowing their location at all times so that, in the event of any emergency, we can get there as quickly as possible.”

Among the top tips that firefighters will be sharing with boaters are:

• Fit a suitable smoke detector;

• Make a fire action plan;

• Take care when refuelling with petrol or changing gas cylinders;

• Avoid using portable gas equipment on-board, where possible, and store all gas canisters in special gas lockers or open places where any leaks will flow overboard;

• Routinely check items such as battery terminals and fuse box connections for damaged strands or signs of overheating;

• Take care when doing repairs, and keep interiors well ventilated when using adhesives, paints and spirit based products; and

• Always keep your eye on a solid fuel stove when it’s lit and don’t leave it unattended.