Don't be anxious, be alarmed!

Avoiding the causes of both fire and CO is always the best policy; it's important not to rely on detector alarms completely.

However, early detection of fire and CO is vital and so we do strongly recommend that owners with solid fuel stoves fit at least one suitable smoke alarm and CO alarm and test them routinely.

The greatest fire and CO danger comes from being overcome by smoke or poisonous fumes or CO gas, especially whilst asleep.

Test all alarms on the boat when first boarding and weekly when the boat is in use.

Make sure you and your crew know to get to a safe place if the alarm goes off.

Smoke alarms - The alarm of choice is an optical alarm with a long-life battery, a hush button and one that is certified by BSi or LPCB as meeting BS EN 14606.

CO alarms -

Fit alarms certified by BSi or LPCB as meeting BS EN 50291-2; these are best suited for boats. Alarms with life-long batteries are available.

If in doubt about the choice of alarm, call the manufacturer's or supplier's support line for more advice.

Alarms and warning devices for people with hearing loss are available.

There's more detail and tips about choosing suitable smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and fixing them in boats and what to do if the alarm goes off.

Fit alarms and replace them when outdated (check the date label on the alarm).

Never remove batteries and replace the batteries when they have lost power.

Test alarms when returning to the boat, then at least weekly when staying aboard.