CPSC notice: Since 1992, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has reminded consumers to check smoke alarms and change batteries when they change their clocks, but in that time, many alarms have lost their effectiveness. This year, CPSC wants to remind consumers to replace smoke alarms every ten years and replace carbon monoxide (CO) alarms every five years. Click here for the link to the notice
Why doesn’t my boat have a smoke detector:
Smoke detectors (alarms) are commonplace in your home, but you probably haven’t seen one installed in your boat’s cabin, berth or galley. There is currently no marine standard for smoke detectors. The marine environment is harsh from the standpoint of moisture and shock. Also there is normal outgasing in FRP boats that can affect certain types of gas detectors.
It is these types of issues that are addressed when standards are developed and thus a performance criteria is established. UL marine is the usual source for this type of standard and in fact they currently have a standard (UL 217) for RV smoke detectors.
When it comes to fires and fire prevention the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is the source for standards. The NFPA issues a standard, 302, that pertains to fire safety onboard boats. The most current edition (2004) includes a requirement for the installation of smoke detectors meeting the RV standard of UL 217. The NFPA standard recommends boats 26 feet or more with sleeping accommodations be equipped with a single station smoke alarm that is listed to UL 217, and installed and maintained according to the device manufacturer’s instructions.
The USCG mandates installation of RV smoke detectors (alarm) onboard inspected commercial vessels under 46CFR 181.450.
UL is currently working on a marine standard for smoke detectors and the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) is working on a standard for the installation of marine smoke detectors. When that work is completed a marine smoke detector will be available for your installation and likely it will be included with new boats having sleeping accommodations.
Can I install a RV smoke detector (alarm)?
Sure you can. Just remember that the unit you install is not tested and listed to be reliable in a marine environment. Be sure the unit you choose is listed for RV use. Read the smoke alarm owners manual and NEVER install a residential use detector in a boat.
