Topics

Chubb’s foundation is supported by its industry-leading underwriting, claims and risk engineering capabilities. The following includes information about each of Chubb’s North American business lines. If you would like to request an interview with one of Chubb’s spokespeople or to learn more, please contact Chubb media relations at news@chubb.com.

Boating Exposures Part 3

Part 3 of 5

A Word About Fire Extinguishers

It is important to know how to use a fire extinguisher before you are faced with a situation when you have to use it.

Fire extinguishers are labeled according to the type of fire for which they may be used. Fires involving wood or cloth, flammable liquids, electrical current or a combination of those will each react differently to extinguishers. Using the wrong type of extinguisher on a given type of fire could be dangerous and make matters even worse. However, a tri-class dry chemical extinguisher will meet most boaters’ needs.

The U.S. Coast Guard recommends the acronym P-A-S-S to assist you in remembering how to operate the fire extinguisher:

  • Pull the pin at the top of the cylinder;
  • Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire;
  • Squeeze or press the handle; and
  • Sweep the contents from side to side at the base of the fire until it goes out.

Dollars Matter: Money for Maintenance

Boats do cost money: for maintenance, parts, docking and vendors.

If you own a boat, it is not the place to cut maintenance, parts, docking and vendor costs. Approximately 50 percent of accidents occur because of poor or deferred maintenance. For the same reason, a large number of boats catch on fire or sink at the dock.

In Your Own Backyard

It is not uncommon for mariners in seaside communities to dock their boats at their private docks in the canals and lagoons behind their homes—sometimes with keys intact, even with gas tanks filled.

It is also not uncommon for burglars to steal boats docked in an owner’s backyard. What’s more, theft rings often scope out private neighborhoods and/or marinas and steal several boats at a time or in the course of a few nights. Take precaution when docking—and if you discover your boat is missing, report the theft immediately. Prompt reporting within a 24-hour period enables marine surveyors to reach out to an established list of contacts to try to locate a vessel and thus can make the difference between a successful outcome like finding your boat and a total loss.

Next: Some Facts to Think About (part 4 of 5)

The opinions and positions expressed are the authors’ own and not those of Chubb. The information and/ or data provided herein is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Insurance coverage is subject to the language of the policies as issued.