What is a requirement for fire extinguishers on a boat?

For fire extinguishers on a boat, one of the key requirements is that they must be Coast Guard approved. This means that the fire extinguishers meet specific safety standards established for marine use. Coast Guard approval ensures that the extinguishers are reliable and effective for extinguishing fires that may occur on a vessel.

Using equipment that has been tested and certified helps ensure the safety of all on board, as it's critical to have reliable firefighting equipment in case of an emergency on the water. Coast Guard approved extinguishers are designed to operate in the marine environment, which can differ significantly from land-based conditions.

While other factors, such as visibility and maintenance, are important for safety, they do not carry the same level of regulatory requirement as having approved equipment. Thus, ensuring that a fire extinguisher is Coast Guard approved is fundamental for compliance and safety on the water.