Marine Fire Protection
Boats and marine vessels present unique fire protection challenges due to confined spaces, fuel systems, electrical hazards, and limited escape options. Fixed fire suppression systems are required by USCG regulations for many vessel types and are highly recommended for all boats with enclosed engine compartments.
Guspora is an authorized Fireboy-Xintex service center, providing sales, installation, inspection, and recharge services for marine fire suppression systems throughout Kentucky and the surrounding region.
Engine Room Systems
Automatic protection for gasoline and diesel engine compartments
Galley Systems
Kitchen fire suppression for larger vessels with cooking facilities
Portable Extinguishers
USCG-approved portable units for deck and cabin use
USCG Requirement
Fireboy-Xintex is the leading manufacturer of marine fire suppression systems, with over 50 years of experience protecting boats from 20 feet to mega-yachts. Their clean agent systems provide reliable, automatic protection without damaging engines or electronics.
Key Advantage: Only manufacturer to offer true automatic detection and discharge without manual intervention
- USCG approved systems for all vessel classes
- Clean agent leaves no residue
- Automatic thermal detection
- Manual discharge option
- 10-year warranty on cylinders
Vessels We Serve
We install and service the complete line of Fireboy-Xintex marine fire suppression systems.
Fireboy-Xintex System Options
| Series | Agent | Activation | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| MA2 | HFC-227ea (Clean Agent) | Auto + Manual | Small-Medium Engine Rooms |
| CG2 | HFC-227ea (Clean Agent) | Auto + Manual | USCG Certified Vessels |
| Novec 1230 | FK-5-1-12 | Auto + Manual | Green/Eco-Conscious |
| EG1 | FM-200 | Automatic Only | Economy Systems |
| Galley Maid | Wet Chemical | Auto + Manual | Cooking Areas |
MA2 Series (Most Popular)
The MA2 series provides automatic fire detection and suppression for engine compartments. When temperatures exceed safe levels, the system automatically discharges, extinguishing fires in seconds.
| Agent | HFC-227ea Clean Agent |
| Detection | 175°F thermal link |
| Sizes | 25-1000 cubic feet coverage |
| Discharge Time | < 10 seconds |
| Warranty | 10 years (cylinder) |
Novec 1230 Series
For environmentally conscious boaters, the Novec 1230 series uses 3M's fluoroketone agent with minimal environmental impact and the widest safety margin of any clean agent.
| Agent | 3M Novec 1230 |
| GWP | 1 (lowest available) |
| ODP | 0 |
| Detection | 175°F thermal link |
| Warranty | 10 years (cylinder) |
Galley Maid - Kitchen Fire Protection
For larger vessels with enclosed galley (kitchen) areas, the Galley Maid system provides automatic fire suppression for cooking equipment. Uses wet chemical agent similar to commercial kitchen systems.
- Protects stove, oven, and range hood
- Automatic temperature detection
- Manual pull station included
- Shuts off fuel/power to appliances
- Wet chemical prevents re-flash
- Easy cleanup after discharge
- ABYC A-6 compliant
- USCG approved
System Sizing
Applicable Regulations
| USCG 46 CFR 25 | Requirements for Small Passenger Vessels |
| USCG 46 CFR 28 | Requirements for Commercial Fishing Vessels |
| USCG 46 CFR 169 | Sailing School Vessels |
| ABYC A-4 | Liquid Fuel Systems |
| ABYC A-6 | Cooking Appliances |
| NFPA 302 | Fire Protection Standard for Pleasure and Commercial Motor Craft |
| UL 1058 | Standard for Halogenated Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems |
When Fixed Systems Are Required
USCG regulations require fixed fire suppression systems for:
- Small passenger vessels (46 CFR 25)
- Commercial fishing vessels (46 CFR 28)
- Vessels carrying more than 6 passengers for hire
- Engine compartments over specified volume
- Vessels with gasoline-powered machinery
Recommended For All Vessels
Even when not required, fixed systems are strongly recommended for:
- Any enclosed engine compartment
- Boats kept in enclosed slips
- Vessels with gasoline inboards
- Houseboats and cabin cruisers
- Any vessel used for sleeping
Portable Extinguisher Requirements
Portable Extinguisher Requirements
| Vessel Length | Minimum Required | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 26 ft | 1 × 5-B | Any enclosed compartment |
| 26 ft to less than 40 ft | 2 × 5-B or 1 × 20-B | Multiple locations |
| 40 ft to 65 ft | 3 × 5-B or 1 × 20-B + 1 × 5-B | Multiple locations |
Note: If a fixed system is installed and meets USCG requirements, one portable extinguisher may be substituted.
USCG Compliance
Guspora can help ensure your vessel meets all USCG fire protection requirements:
- Fixed system installation and certification
- Annual inspections with documentation
- Portable extinguisher sales and service
- Consultation on requirements for your vessel class
Annual Inspection Required
Maintenance Schedule
| Interval | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Monthly (Owner) | Visual check: Verify system pressure gauge is in green zone, thermal detector is intact and properly positioned, discharge nozzle is unobstructed. |
| Annual | Professional inspection: Complete system examination including weight verification, thermal detector check, pressure reading, nozzle inspection, and documentation update. |
| 6-Year | Internal examination and possible recharge. Fireboy-Xintex cylinders should be returned to an authorized service center for inspection. |
| 12-Year | Hydrostatic testing or cylinder replacement. Many owners choose replacement due to the critical nature of marine fire protection. |
Annual Inspection Includes:
- Verify cylinder weight (agent quantity)
- Check pressure gauge reading
- Inspect thermal detector condition
- Check detector positioning
- Examine discharge nozzle
- Inspect mounting and brackets
- Test manual release (if equipped)
- Check fuel/power shutoffs
- Update inspection tag/sticker
- Provide documentation for USCG
Recharge Services
Systems require recharge after any discharge, or when inspection reveals low agent or pressure.
- Full discharge and evacuation
- Cylinder cleaning and inspection
- New agent fill to specification
- New thermal detector (if needed)
- Pressure test and certification
- Return to service documentation
Common Issues
System Issues:
- Low cylinder pressure (slow leak)
- Thermal detector corrosion
- Nozzle blockage
- Bracket corrosion/failure
Installation Issues:
- Detector not in hottest location
- Nozzle blocked by equipment
- Improper system size
- Missing fuel shutoff interlock
Service Locations
We provide marine fire system services at marinas throughout Kentucky:
- Lake Cumberland
- Dale Hollow Lake
- Barren River Lake
- Green River Lake
- Rough River Lake
- Nolin Lake
- Ohio River marinas
- Kentucky Lake
- Lake Barkley
We can also service your vessel at our facility or arrange mobile service at your location.