Attack the fire from a direction which will leave a safe escape route if you are not successful in putting out the fire. Continue using the extinguisher until well after the visible fire has gone in case the residual heat re-ignites it. The residual heat can be totally removed by damping down with water. This would also ensure that they are tested and refilled from time to time, say every 3 or 4 years. Action in the event of fire 1 Treat any fire very seriously no matter how small.
Any fire can get out of hand very rapidly.
2 Alert all on board and tell them to get on deck. 3 Attack the fire at once with an extinguisher. If fuels or electrics are involved, detail one crew member to turn them off at source, if possible. 5 Close fore hatches and ventilators to reduce through draughts. Shut off engine compartment ventilation fans.