April 2022 New Fire Extinguisher Requirements for Recreation Boats

[WB Staff]

Beginning in April 2022, the U.S. Coast Guard issued new regulations for disposable fire extinguisher dates of manufacture and label classifications.


Fire extinguishers must not be more than 12 years old according to the date of manufacture stamped on the bottle. Boaters can find the manufacture date stamped into the bottom of the bottle or near the UL label.

Vessels model year 2018 or newer must carry fire extinguishers labeled as 5-B, 10-B or 20-B. The old labels of B-1 or B-11 are no longer acceptable.

Vessels model year 2017 or older may keep serviceable extinguishers labeled B-1 and B-11 if they are less than 12 years old.

Fire Extinguisher Requirements for Recreation Boats
Fire Extinguisher Musts graphicCoast Guard-approved fire extinguishers in an easy-to-reach location are required on the following boats with:

Inboard or stern-drive engines
Closed compartments where portable fuel tanks may be stored
Double-walled hulls that are not sealed or not filled with floatation material.
Enclosed living spaces
Closed stowage compartments in which combustible or flammable materials may be stored
Permanently installed fuel tanks
Boat Operators should show all passengers where safety equipment is stored. Make sure your passengers know what to do in case of an emergency.

The following chart describes the required fire extinguisher type by boat size. It includes the newer UL-listed equivalents as 5-B, 10-B and 20-B.

Remember, disposable fire extinguishers must be replaced no later than 12 years from date of manufacture stamped on the bottle.