All enclosed gasoline boat engines with a carburetor are required to be equipped with an acceptable means of backfire flame control. A backfire flame arrestor (BFA) should be appropriately secured to the air intake with a flame-tight connection. The BFA must be U.S. Coast Guard-approved or should comply with SAE J-1928 or UL 1111 standards and should be marked as so.

Air and fuel induction systems which are usually found on personal watercraft, velocity stacks and reed-type devices are also acceptable means of backfire flame control.

This device is intended to help prevent sparks from causing a fire. It essentially muffles sparks that may occur in enclosed engine spaces.

It is important to maintain your backfire flame arrestor. The operator should ensure it is cleaned and regularly checked, to ensure that it remains in proper working order. It is recommended that the BFA be removed and then cleaned using a mild detergent (see manufacturer instructions) so as to wash off any fuel or combustion residue.  After cleaning, you should check for signs of damage, or significant wear and tear. Once inspected, reattach the BFA in a correct manner.