Fires involving yachts in marinas represent high-risk incidents that can escalate rapidly due to high fuel loads, composite and GRP hull structures, limited maneuvering space, and the close proximity of vessels. In such scenarios, fire safety cannot be ensured through a single piece of equipment alone; it requires the combined and correctly positioned use of multiple systems.
As Emesco Marine, we approach marina fire safety by delivering integrated solutions that combine SKUM fire monitors with AFT CAFS (Compressed Air Foam System) technologies, configured in accordance with real operational scenarios. Our objective is not to offer standalone products, but to provide practical, risk-based, and effective intervention strategies that can be applied in the field.
Initial Response and Area Control with Monitor Systems
During the early stages of a fire, the primary objective is to limit fire spread and control radiant heat.
- SKUM fire monitors enable high-flow water or foam application from a safe distance.
- The risk of fire spreading to adjacent yachts and marina infrastructure is significantly reduced.
- Rapid impact over wide areas allows the fire to be effectively contained.
- Personnel safety is enhanced throughout the intervention.
The purpose of this phase is not full extinguishment, but to bring the fire under control and make it manageable.
Targeted, Effective, and Safe-Distance Intervention with AFT
Once the fire has been brought under control, detailed extinguishment operations can commence.
- AFT CAFS systems provide targeted and highly effective intervention in engine rooms, cabins, and enclosed spaces.
- Long discharge range capability allows firefighting teams to suppress the fire from a safe distance without physically approaching the fire scene.
- This significantly reduces exposure to radiant heat, explosion hazards, and dense smoke.
- High foam penetration enables rapid cooling by acting directly at the fire source.
- The risk of re-ignition is minimized.
- Reduced water consumption limits water damage and operational downtime—an essential advantage in marina environments.
This approach offers a controlled and effective intervention strategy that prioritizes personnel safety, particularly for fires developing within enclosed spaces of composite and GRP-hulled yachts.
The integrated SKUM monitor + AFT CAFS intervention concept provided by Emesco Marine focuses not only on extinguishing the fire, but also on limiting damage, shortening response time, and enabling marina operations to return to normal as quickly as possible. This represents a scenario-driven, risk-based fire safety philosophy, rather than an equipment-centric one.
In conclusion, yacht fires in marinas are too complex and hazardous to be addressed with isolated solutions. An effective fire safety plan must clearly define which systems are used, at which stage, how, and for what purpose. Emesco Marine meets this need by offering integrated fire intervention solutions under the AFT and SKUM brands, specifically designed for marina operations.
For more information: info@emescomarine.com