What should you do if a fire breaks out in the back of your boat?

Heading the boat into the wind is crucial in the event of a fire because it helps to minimize the spread of flames and smoke toward you and any passengers on board. By positioning the bow into the wind, the airflow can carry smoke and heat away from the boat, enhancing visibility and providing a safer environment to assess the situation and take further action.

This maneuver also allows for better access to extinguishing the fire if other safety measures need to be employed. In a fire emergency on a boat, it's vital to control the environment as much as possible to ensure safety, making this tactic a valuable first step in managing a fire outbreak.

Jumping overboard should generally be a last resort, as it's not safe to enter the water without assessing the situation, especially with the risk of fuel spills and other hazards. Turning off the engine is a precautionary step to prevent the spread of flames or ignition sources; however, it should be done carefully while maintaining control of the vessel. Using a fire extinguisher is also a critical action to take, but it’s necessary to position the boat appropriately first to ensure safety and effectiveness in extinguishing the fire.