What are four things you should do if a fire erupts on your boat while underway?

When a fire erupts on your boat while underway, the most effective course of action involves several critical steps aimed at ensuring the safety of all aboard. Stopping the boat is essential because it allows for better control of the situation and prevents the fire from spreading or getting out of hand due to movement. Keeping the fire downwards is important as it may contain the flames and reduce the risk of the fire spreading upward to more combustible materials. Shutting off the fuel supply is also crucial, as this action cuts off the source that could potentially feed the fire, thereby helping to control the situation more effectively. Using a fire extinguisher is vital, as it provides a means to directly combat the fire, increasing the likelihood of extinguishing it before it becomes unmanageable.

The other options present actions that are not safe or effective in dealing with a fire on a boat. For instance, waiting for help or using water improperly could exacerbate the situation, and panicking would likely lead to chaos and further danger. Additionally, speeding away from the fire, discarding items overboard, and relying on the engine to push through are all responses that could allow the fire to worsen and jeopardize the safety of everyone on board. Thus, the selected correct response ensures