Canal houseboat fire safety

A fire on a canal boat or houseboat can develop quickly. In a confined space, smoke, heat and carbon monoxide can build up fast. Here's how you can reduce fire risk and improve escape, alarm and maintenance arrangements.

Reducing the risk of fire on board

1. Fit working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms suitable for boats. Test them regularly.
2. Have gas appliances checked regularly by a suitably qualified engineer who is competent to work on boats.
3. Keep vents and ventilation points clear so carbon monoxide doesn't build up inside the cabin.
4. Take extra care when cooking. Never leave cooking unattended, keep the area clean and keep tea towels, paper and other flammable items away from hobs and heaters.
5. Don't use portable camping stoves, portable gas heaters or barbecues inside a boat.
6. Keep heating appliances, stoves and flues in good condition. Check for cracks, damage, blockages or signs of overheating, and deal with problems as soon as possible.
7. Be careful with smoking, candles and other naked flames. Put cigarettes out fully, avoid smoking when tired and consider safer battery-powered alternatives to candles.
8. Make sure everyone on board knows how to get out quickly if there is a fire or if an alarm sounds. Keep exits clear and avoid storing belongings where they could block an escape route.
9. Take care with electrical systems and charging on board. Avoid overloaded sockets, use suitable marine electrical equipment, and be cautious when charging lithium-ion batteries or other rechargeable devices.

If you smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide

If you smell gas, turn off the supply if it's safe to do so, get everyone out, ventilate the boat and have the system checked by a competent engineer.

A carbon monoxide alarm will not detect a gas leak so both risks need to be taken seriously. If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds or anyone feels unwell with symptoms such as headache, dizziness or nausea, move into fresh air immediately and seek urgent medical advice.

Gas Safety on Boats (Gas Safe Register)

In an emergency

If there is a fire, get everybody off the boat if you can do so safely, stay out, and call 999. Do not re-enter the boat. If the boat is moored, help people move away from smoke and flames and warn nearby boaters if there is immediate danger.

Check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms today and test them regularly. Arrange servicing and safety checks for gas, heating and fuel-burning appliances by a competent boat-qualified engineer. Review escape arrangements and make sure everyone on board knows what to do in an emergency. Use the trusted external resources below for more detailed guidance.

Fire safety on boats (GOV.UK)