When winter weather sets in, live-aboard boaters on cruising vessels and sailboats (boats with cabins) crank up the heat and spend more time inside. But many of these types of boats are not equipped with smoke alarms, and early detection has proven to save lives in homes and RV’s. So why are smoke alarms rarely found on boats that have cabin spaces? You guessed it. They’re not required. However, the Oregon State Marine Board wants to appeal to owners of cruising vessels that the risk of fire on board your boat can happen, and it’s worth it to invest in the most reliable and affordable life saving device out on the market -a smoke alarm.