USCG issues interim rule on fire safety of small passenger vessels

In response to the deadly Conception dive boat fire, the U.S. Coast Guard is issuing an interim rule as the first step to implementing statutorily mandated requirements for fire safety on certain covered small passenger vessels. This interim rule adds additional fire safety requirements for small passenger vessels, including fire detection and suppression systems, avenues of escape, egress drills, crew firefighting training, watchmen monitoring devices, and the handling of flammable items such as rechargeable batteries.