New Jersey Boating Certification Practice Test

What should you do immediately if a boat's motor catches on fire?

1. Attempt to extinguish the fire with water

2. Turn off the engine

3. Call for help and abandon the boat

4. Open all hatches for ventilation

The correct answer is: Turn off the engine

If a boat's motor catches on fire, turning off the engine is a critical first step. This action helps to eliminate the fuel supply to the fire, which can prevent it from spreading and potentially becoming larger or uncontrollable. Turning off the engine also reduces the risk of further ignition from the heat or sparks associated with running machinery. In situations like this, it is crucial to manage the fire effectively and prevent further danger. While other actions such as calling for help or attempting to extinguish the fire are important, they come after the engine has been turned off to prevent exacerbating the situation. Opening hatches for ventilation could potentially draw in additional fuel and air, which may make the fire worse, rather than aiding in its suppression. Thus, turning off the engine is the most critical and immediate action to take in the event of a fire on a boat.