On Sunday, October 15, we had 18 members attend a Fire & Emergency Awareness session conducted by Rick McKay and 6 other members of the San Remo Fire Brigade.
The informative theory part of the session maintained the interest of all participants. Rick, an ex-fire engineer with an extensive background in working in a variety of marinas throughout Australia, covered the science / behaviour of fire, fire-fighting strategy, fire extinguishing, and emergency management. The participants then undertook a practical session that involved using fire extinguishers and the marina fire hoses.
This session was the beginning of a relationship with the San Remo Fire Brigade during which the brigade will assist NYS to review its resources and strategies relating to fire and emergency prevention / response. We thank the brigade members for their time and the presentation of this session, and we look forward to developing a strong partnership with it.
With the busy boating season approaching, it is worthwhile all boaters reflecting on their fire prevention / response resources and strategies appropriate for their own vessel, as well as contemplation of possible strategies in reaction to a fire within the marina.
Some basic learnings from the session may assist:
* Life Safety is the Highest Priority. Therefore Evacuation takes priority over extinguishing the fire
* General Fire Orders:
– Assist anyone in immediate danger if safe to do so
– Call Fire Brigade 000
– Evacuate unnecessary persons to Assembly Area
– Attack the fire if safe to do so
– Stay at assembly area and account for everyone
– If possible, prepare for easy and efficient access by the fire brigade
* Portable Fire Extinguishers:
– Readily accessible adjacent to exit
– Keep clear of obstructions
– Indicator on gauge in green section
– Regularly maintained and serviced
– People with breathing difficulties may be affected by Dry Chemical
– Try to use from upwind; aim at the base of the fire; and spread the foam around
* Fire Blankets:
– Remove blanket from case or pouch
– Find the two straps on the blanket, have them facing you and grip them so that your hands are protected from the fire
– Hold at arm’s length
– Approach fire cautiously using the blanket to shield you from the fire
– Gently place blanket over fire
– Turn off heat source
– Allow to cool
– Call Fire Brigade
