CO₂ cartridge instead of dry powder
The Swedish manufacturer Firemill combines the casing of a compact fire extinguisher with a standard CO₂ cartridge for sparkling water makers. The extinguisher is activated by turning the handle at the base of the unit. The carbon dioxide displaces the oxygen at the flame, thereby extinguishing it without leaving any residue. This can be a particular advantage in the galley, near electrical appliances or by a barbecue: following a small incipient fire, no extinguishing powder is scattered into cupboards, upholstery or electronic equipment.
Firemill states that the Original model is 40 centimetres tall, 7.5 centimetres in diameter and weighs just under two kilograms, including a 425-gram cartridge. The device is designed to be mounted in a visible and easily accessible position. On a yacht, a logical place would be near the galley, but not in the engine compartment.
A small flame, a brief burst of activity
The key factor is the small quantity of extinguishing agent. According to the test report published by Firemill, the discharge time for a single cartridge was around nine seconds, and the effective range was stated as 1.5 metres. In the case of a fire in its early stages, this short duration of operation may be sufficient. However, if the flames are already larger or the fire is spreading, the supply is quickly used up.
The capacity tests were planned and monitored in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and under the supervision of DNV. They were based on fire classes A, B and F of the European standard EN 3, but utilised smaller test scenarios than the standardised minimum test fires. Firemill itself therefore points out that the device does not meet the criteria of a conventional fire extinguisher. The tests are intended to assess the potential for early intervention; they are not a substitute for an EN 3 fire-extinguishing performance rating.
Handy for the galley, but not for the engine room
For sailors, the strength of the concept lies in its rapid availability. A small grease fire in a frying pan, a burning cloth or a minor fire involving an electrical component can potentially be tackled before a large fire extinguisher has been fetched from the companionway. Firemill also describes the device as refillable. After use or a drill, the CO₂ cartridge is replaced.
Fire safety on board is at least as important. In the event of an engine fire, a cable fire hidden behind panelling, or a fire that has already spread to furniture, insulation or fuel, you need a suitable standard fire extinguisher and a clear plan of action. What equipment is required for maritime duty of care This does, of course, depend on the boat and the area in which it is used. Nevertheless, having an additional quick-action fire extinguisher should not be a reason to skimp on the basic equipment.
In the case of CO₂, the location of use must also be taken into account. The German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) points out that CO₂ fire extinguishers can pose a risk of suffocation in small, confined spaces. This applies in particular to enclosed areas below deck. In the event of smoke, a major fire or an unclear situation, your own safety takes priority: raise the alarm, evacuate people from the danger zone and call for help.
Not a replacement, but a possible addition
Firemill is not a traditional, compact on-board fire extinguisher. The product is designed as an easily accessible aid for tackling very small fires. Its advantages lie in its clean extinguishing agent and ease of use. Its disadvantage is its limited extinguishing duration.
Anyone wishing to use a Firemill on board should therefore regard it as a galley fire extinguisher: kept within easy reach, with a fully charged cartridge, and supplemented by safety equipment suitable for the boat, its engine system and the area in which it is used. As with any fire extinguisher, it is essential to be familiar with how to operate it before an emergency arises. The YACHT guide also provides advice on how to respond correctly in the event of a fire “Fire at sea: what to do in the event of a fire”. When it comes to general safety equipment on board, it is also worth taking a look at the Compulsory equipment and essential on-board equipment. An overview of the different types of erasers is provided by the YACHT comparison of fire extinguishers.
The technical specifications for Firemill are taken from the Manufacturer’s product description and its Capacity trials.
Would a residue-free quick-acting fire extinguisher be a useful addition to your galley, or do you rely exclusively on traditional fire extinguishers on board?
Michael Rinck
Redakteur Test & Technik