2.2.1 Fire prevention rules

DANGER

On all yachts, fire is a major danger.
All fire prevention measures must be followed scrupulously.

Before steering a yacht, the Captain must be perfectly aware of the following fire prevention measures.

At all times the yacht must be equipped with portable extinguishers, located as shown in the figure: “Extinguisher position”.

The yacht’s Owner and the Captain are directly responsible for:

• Having fire extinguishers and fire-fighting equipment overhauled as scheduled on their labels, and having them replaced, as required by the rules in force, with similar or equivalent or higher capacity ones;
• Inform crew members and guests on the yacht about the location and methods of use of fire extinguishers and fire extinguishing systems and emergency exits;
• Ensuring that fire extinguishers are also available in the passengers’ cabins.

CAUTION

The engine room is equipped with a gas fire-fighting system.

WARNING

NEVER:

• Obstruct passageways and the escape routes;
• Hinder access to safety devices, such as fuel valves, electrical switches, etc..;
• Obstruct access to fire extinguishers stowed inside the lockers;
• Leave the yacht unattended, when burners or heat generating equipment are on;
• Use naked flames;
• Modify electric or fuel supply systems, without consulting RIVA beforehand;
• Smoke near or when handling flammable materials;
• Stow highly flammable materials (such as fuel, thinners, etc..) In proximity to heat sources, such as engines, galley, etc..;
• Stow flammable material in the engine room. Non-flammable materials may be stowed only if properly rigged, so they do not accidentally come into contact with rotating engine parts, or obstruct access to the engine room.

Keep the bilge clean and check it frequently for any oil or fuel leaks.

WARNING

EXPLOSION HAZARD
Any lithium battery powered device on board must be recharged only in open air areas, connected to a suitable charging system. Also please refer to the device dedicated Use and Maintenance Manual.

CAUTION

In case fire breaks out in proximity to electrical equipment, do not use water, but use the manual dry-powder fire extinguishers only. After using the extinguishers, leave and ventilate the area immediately before re-approaching it, in order to prevent asphyxia and physical harm.
Clean out any fire extinguishing powder out very carefully.

In addition to these requirements, RIVA recommends the following:

• Avoid smoking lower deck, especially in the engine room.
• Avoid dropping liquids in the bilge and keep it clean, especially the engine room bilge. In case of fuel leaks from the engines or from the generator, operate as follows:
• Stop all engines immediately;
• Locate the leak cause and, if possible, repair it after closure of supply valves;
• Dry and clean the bilge before restarting the engines, without draining at sea or in the harbour;
• Do not stow flammable items in proximity to heat sources, like engines, burners, halogen lamps, etc..;
• Should the yacht leak, try to remedy with plugs and/or rags, if possible, from outside;
• In case a system of the yacht breaks, close all hull valves, locate and repair the leak if possible. Remember to reopen all hull valves not involved.

CAUTION

The Captain of a leisure craft must be perfectly aware of the basic fire-fighting techniques and how to use the extinguishers.

In case of fire, follow the procedures described below:

• Keep calm and do not spread panic among the passengers;
• Stop the yacht, and close the sea cocks and the drains;
• Set the battery breaker to “OFF”;
• Close the air intakes in the engine room;
• Locate the fire and its origin;
• Avoid breathing smoke;
• Extinguish the fire, by following standard fire extinguishing techniques.

DANGER

In case of the yacht sinking risk, close the fuel and black water valves.

DANGER

Regularly check the fire extinguisher charge inside the main electrical panel.