The official launch of A Boater’s Guide to Fire Safety took place at Hodson Bay Harbour, Co. Roscommon, on Lough Ree, on Tuesday, 28 July 2026 at 5:00 pm, bringing together key stakeholders committed to enhancing safety across Ireland’s inland waterways.
The guide was developed through a collaborative partnership between the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM), Waterways Ireland, the Heritage Boat Association (HBA) and the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland (IWAI). Designed specifically for boat owners and users, the leaflet provides practical fire safety advice, including guidance on fire prevention, maintenance of safety equipment, emergency preparedness, and safe onboard practices.
As part of the initiative, smoke alarms were also distributed to boat owners, helping to enhance onboard safety and promote early fire detection across the inland waterways network. The distribution of smoke alarms complements the safety messages contained within the guide and aims to reduce the risks associated with onboard fires.
The launch event was also attended by representatives from Civil Defence, the Chief Fire Officer and firefighters from Roscommon Fire and Rescue Service, reflecting the strong partnership approach underpinning the initiative and the shared commitment to protecting those who enjoy Ireland’s waterways.
This collaborative project highlights the importance of working together to raise awareness of fire safety and support safer boating practices. NDFEM looks forward to continuing its engagement with waterways and boating organisations through future initiatives aimed at strengthening safety and resilience across the sector.
Peter Harty, Inspector of Navigation and Maritime Safety Lead with Waterways Ireland, said:
“Fire on board a vessel can develop rapidly and, in the confined environment of a boat, the consequences can be devastating. Fortunately, many onboard fires are preventable through simple precautions and good planning. This guide has been developed to help boaters understand the risks and take practical steps to protect themselves, their passengers and their vessels.
Waterways Ireland wishes to sincerely thank the NDFEM, the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland and the Heritage Boat Association for their expertise, collaboration and commitment in developing this important initiative. Through this partnership, the organisations aim to encourage safer behaviours, improve awareness of onboard fire risks and help ensure Ireland’s inland waterways continue to be safe, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.”
Chris Barry, Senior Assistant Fire Advisor with the NDFEM, said:
“Being prepared can make all the difference when an emergency occurs on the water. Fire safety on boats requires awareness and preparation, and simple measures such as testing smoke alarms, removing obvious dangers and having a clear escape plan can help save lives. Through this initiative, we are encouraging boaters to take practical steps to reduce risk and ensure they are ready to respond effectively if fire breaks out on board.”
The publication of A Boater’s Guide to Fire Safety marks an important step in ensuring that Ireland’s boating community has access to clear, practical guidance and resources to help keep themselves, their passengers, and their vessels safe. You can find a digital version here: https://cdn.fireireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/27113535/A-Boaters-Guide-to-Fire-Safety.pdf