Fire extinguisher firm signs up to Solent powerboat team's round the world record challenge

The small hand-held fire extinguisher, from the MFF Group, in Essex, can be used on most types of fire and works by smothering it in a dense foam and cutting off the oxygen supply.

The fire extinguishers will be used in an emergency on Team Britannia’s 80ft single hulled semi-wave slicing boat, on their 23,000-mile record attempt, which starts next month. Team skipper, Portsmouth ocean racing legend Alan Priddy, said: ‘Fire at sea is probably the worst thing that can happen.

‘It is a danger to the craft, regardless of size and to the life of those on board, so it is vital that it is dealt with as quickly as possible. This means having the right equipment.

‘What we love about the Mini Firefighter units is that they not only fight fire, are simple to use and cost-effective, but they do not use any environmentally damaging chemicals.’