When is it required to have a fire extinguisher on board a boat?

A fire extinguisher is required on board a boat if it has an enclosed engine compartment or is carrying passengers for hire due to the increased risk of fire in these situations. Enclosed engine compartments can trap fuel vapors and heat, creating a hazardous environment. When a boat is carrying passengers for hire, the presence of more people can increase the likelihood of fire-related incidents and necessitate fire safety measures.

While larger boats and certain types of vessels may have additional safety regulations, simply being over 20 feet or being a sailboat does not automatically require a fire extinguisher. Furthermore, the presence of children on board does not specifically mandate the presence of a fire extinguisher unless the boat meets other criteria that inherently involve greater risks. This choice emphasizes the importance of fire safety measures in conditions that increase the likelihood of a fire occurring.