Boats are designed to keep water out of their hulls - which means they also act as good containers for leaks or overflows of flammable liquids!

Keeping or using fuels such as diesel or petrol in confined and undrained spaces obviously carries a risk of providing fuel for a fire or explosion. The main aim of this Part is to keep fuel away from sources of ignition for as long as possible.

This can be achieved by making sure that your fuel filling and fuel supply arrangements don't allow fuel to accumulate inside the confines of your boat. You can help to minimise the risk of a fire starting and spreading by ensuring all fuel system components are kept in good condition, are fire resistant (see flexible hoses, fuel pipe and hose connections and fuel filters) suitable for the fuel being used and kept away from sources of heat.

This Part applies to all boats with inboard engines and to other fixed fuel systems to appliances such as diesel heaters. Part Eight of this Guide covers this type of appliance.