Dry chemical extinguishers tend to cake and should be turned upside down and shaken, about once each month. They include a gauge that indicates the condition of the charge. They must be tested every three years.

The Coast Guard requires boats to have at least one B-1 marine fire extinguisher on board. Depending on the size of your boat you may need more than one. Boats less than 26′ have to have at least one B-1 fire extinguisher on board. Boats 26′-40′ need to have at least two B-1 fire extinguishers on board.

Experts recommend storing your fire extinguishers in an upright position and mounted in an easily accessible place. You should keep them in rooms where fires are more likely to break out such as the hull, cabin, kitchen and bilge.

• Standards by the National Fire Protection Association state that disposable fire extinguishers must be replaced every 12 years. Your disposable fire extinguisher should also be on your monthly safety check list and be replaced immediately if the gauge reads empty.

All portable fuel tanks must be filled off of the boat. Once filled, store portable fuel tanks onboard in a well-ventilated area away from the engine and electrical equipment.

Always refill your portable fuel containers on the pavement or dock to ensure a good ground. While the bed of your truck or the deck of your boat may seem stable, static electricity can build up and cause a spark.

Marine engine manufacturers and technicians advise storing any boat with the fuel tank almost full, leaving just a little capacity to accommodate expansion of the fuel if the temperature warms.

Turn off anything that might cause a spark—engines, fans, or electrical equipment. Shut off all fuel valves and extinguish all open flames, such as galley stoves and pilot lights. Close all windows, ports, doors, and other openings to prevent fumes from entering the boat.

Bananas were a source of bad luck for ships carrying other types of fruits as well. Bananas give off ethylene gas, which can cause other fruits to ripen and, thus, spoil more quickly than they would otherwise. This unintended result might be a source of concern for ships looking to turn a profit on fresh fruits.

Gasoline fumes are the major cause of boat explosions, and because they usually happen when someone is aboard, they often cause serious injuries.

The typical gasoline marine engine will run fine for the first 1,000 hours. It is at this juncture that the engine starts to exhibit small problems. If these small problems aren’t addressed, they can turn into major problems which may make the last 500 hours of life difficult to reach.

every 50-100 hours