How often should fire drills be conducted on a vessel?

Fire drills should be conducted at least once every three months to ensure that all crew members are familiar with emergency procedures related to fire safety. Frequent drills enable the crew to practice their roles within the fire response plan, understand the operation of firefighting equipment, and maintain a high level of preparedness.

Conducting drills every three months strikes a balance between maintaining readiness and the practical constraints of daily operations on a vessel. This frequency aligns with the requirements outlined in safety regulations and industry best practices, which emphasize not only the importance of having drills but also ensuring that crew members retain the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively in a real emergency.

While weekly or monthly drills might seem beneficial, they may not be feasible for all vessels due to operational schedules and crew availability. Conducting drills only during emergencies is inadequate, as it does not provide crew members with the necessary practice and familiarity to react confidently and competently in a high-pressure situation. Regular, planned drills are vital in establishing a safety culture on board.