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Generators and metallic exhaust components. Technician clean, inspect and confirm proper operation of the engine, > Look for any signs of leaks in the exhaust system including water leaks, rusts, corroded, cracked or loosened fittingsĪs part of the annual maintenance check, have a qualified marine > Educate passengers on the symptoms of CO poisoning, causes and areas to avoidĪs part of the monthly maintenance check, inspect components of theĮxhaust system and check the condition of rubber hoses. > Install a CO detector alarm and test its operation before each trip Steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:įind out where the exhaust outlets are located on your vessel andĮnsure that they are properly vented away from living areas Taking steps to correct rear venting generator exhausts of manufacture designs is one step to prevent the build up of carbon monoxide concentration, however scheduling regular engine and exhaust system maintenance inspections by trained technicians is most beneficial.Ĭold and/or poorly tuned engines produce more carbon monoxide than warm, properly tuned engines. When possible, operate the vessel so that prevailing winds help dissipate emissions of the exhaust in order to prevent the accumulation of carbon monoxide in the cabin or cockpit. When idle or travelling at slow speeds, boats should be a minimum of 6 metres from the nearest vessel that is running an engine or generator alongside, to prevent exhaust fumes or tailwinds increasing carbon monoxide levels.Īlways keep forward facing hatches open to allow fresh air to circulate the living spaces. Increased carbon monoxide levels can accumulate inside the cabin, cockpit and bridge due to blocked exhaust outlets, or the effects of back drafting when operating at a high bow angle or with improper and heavy loading. Those in the water should not approach the area until the motor generator has stopped running for at least 15 minutes, officials say. Passengers, swimmers and teak/drag surfers should be aware of the carbon monoxide levels that dissipate from rear-vented generator exhausts situated close to the rear deck and the swim platform. The areas of concern for recreational boaters are the build up of carbon monoxide emissions inside and outside the vessel. Sources on a vessel that produce carbon monoxide include petrol or diesel engines, generators, fuel-burning cooking equipment, and space or water heaters. Be aware that CO can remain in or around your boat at dangerous levels even if your engine or the other boat's engine is no longer running! > At slow speeds, while idling, or stopped. > CO from the boat docked next to you can be just as deadly > Inadequately ventilated canvas enclosures If you suspect someone may have carbon monoxide poisoning contact your nearest emergency medical service.Īs the skipper, make sure you are aware of the following: These should not be confused with the flu, seasickness or intoxication. There are some telltale signs that you should be aware of.Įducate family, friends and boat passengers about carbon monoxide so that they aware of the possible symptoms.Įarly symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include: Long periods of exposure to low concentrations or short periods of exposure to high concentrations of carbon monoxide can result in death or serious injury.Ĭarbon monoxide in high concentrations can be fatal in a matter of minutes. This risks rise when the weather cools and we tend to spend more time in our cabins with heaters and cooking equipment nearby.Ĭarbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless and odourless gas produced when carbon based fuel such as diesel, petrol, propane, charcoal, or oil, burns. Every so often you read about a tragic death on a boat due to carbon monoxide poisoning.
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