Waterways Ireland, in partnership with the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM), the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland and the Heritage Boat Association, has launched a new fire safety guide aimed at promoting safer boating across Ireland's inland waterways.
The initiative follows a number of serious vessel fires in recent years and seeks to raise awareness of the fire risks associated with boating while encouraging practical steps that can help prevent incidents before they occur.
While fire incidents on the inland waterways remain relatively uncommon, even a small fire on board can escalate rapidly, making prevention and early detection critical. By increasing awareness and encouraging simple preventative measures, the campaign aims to positively influence the behaviours of the many thousands of people who enjoy Ireland's inland waterways each year.
Chris Barry, Senior Assistant Fire Advisor with the NDFEM, said:
"Being prepared can make all the difference when an emergency occurs on the water. Fire safety on boats requires awareness and preparation, and simple measures such as testing smoke alarms, removing obvious dangers and having a clear escape plan can help save lives. Through this initiative, we are encouraging boaters to take practical steps to reduce risk and ensure they are ready to respond effectively if fire breaks out on board."
The new "A Boater's Guide to Fire Safety" provides clear, practical advice for boat owners and users, including:
• Fitting and testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
• Safe use and storage of LPG cylinders.
• Electrical safety and battery charging.
• Safe cooking and heating practices.
• Fire extinguishers and fire blankets.
• Developing a fire action plan.
• Carrying out a simple nightly fire safety check before going to bed.
The guide has been developed collaboratively by Waterways Ireland, the NDFEM, the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI) and the Heritage Boat Association, bringing together expertise in boating, fire prevention and waterway safety.
Peter Harty, Inspector of Navigation and Maritime Safety Lead with Waterways Ireland, said:
"Fire on board a vessel can develop rapidly and, in the confined environment of a boat, the consequences can be devastating. Fortunately, many onboard fires are preventable through simple precautions and good planning. This guide has been developed to help boaters understand the risks and take practical steps to protect themselves, their passengers and their vessels.
Waterways Ireland wishes to sincerely thank NDFEM, the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland and the Heritage Boat Association for their expertise, collaboration and commitment in developing this important initiative. Through this partnership, the organisations aim to encourage safer behaviours, improve awareness of onboard fire risks and help ensure Ireland's inland waterways continue to be safe, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.”
Waterways Ireland encourages all boat owners, hirers, clubs and waterway users to download and read the guide before heading afloat.
The digital guide is available from:
• Waterways Ireland – Fire Safety on Boats
• NDFEM – www.fireireland.ie
Boaters requiring further information are encouraged to contact Waterways Ireland at info@waterwaysireland.org. Additional fire safety advice is available from www.fireireland.ie.
Launch Event
The official launch of A Boater's Guide to Fire Safety took place at Hodson Bay Hotel in conjunction with the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland Shannon Boat Rally 2026, with rally participants berthed at Hodson Bay Harbour for the occasion. The event provided an ideal opportunity to engage directly with the boating community and to promote practical fire safety awareness among recreational boaters from across Ireland.