Canadian Boating Exam Practice Quiz

Fire extinguishers onboard are classified according to what?

1. The type and size of fire they can handle

2. The length of the boat

3. The weight of the fire extinguisher

4. The color of the fire extinguisher

The correct answer is: The type and size of fire they can handle

Fire extinguishers onboard are classified according to the type and size of fire they can handle, not the length or weight of the boat or the color of the fire extinguisher. This classification method is important because different types of fires require different methods of extinguishment. Choosing the wrong type and size of fire extinguisher could result in the fire not being extinguished, or even worse, making the fire worse. The length or weight of the boat does not determine the classification of a fire extinguisher, as a small fire can quickly become a large one regardless of the boat's size. Lastly, the color of the fire extinguisher is not an indicator of its capabilities and is often used for organizational or aesthetic purposes. Therefore, the type and size of fire they can handle is the most important factor in classifying fire extinguishers onboard.