What type of fire extinguishers are required on motorboats under 26-feet with installed fuel tank(s)?

Motorboats under 26 feet that have installed fuel tank(s) are required to have Type B fire extinguishers on board. Type B extinguishers are specifically designed to combat fires that involve flammable liquids, such as gasoline or oil, which are commonly found on motorboats.

These extinguishers work by smothering the flames and can effectively extinguish fires caused by fuel spills or leaks, which are particularly hazardous on boats due to the enclosed and combustible environment. Having the appropriate Type B extinguisher is crucial for ensuring safety while operating a motorboat, especially considering the risks associated with fuel storage and usage.

Other types of extinguishers serve different purposes; for instance, Type A is designed for ordinary combustible materials like wood and paper, Type C is suitable for electrical fires, and Type D is meant for flammable metals. These types are not suitable for dealing with fires caused by flammable liquids, which is why a Type B extinguisher is mandated for boats with fuel tanks.