Carbon Monoxide Safety: Best Precautions For Boats

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a serious and deadly issue that affects boaters. CO is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that is produced when carbon-based fuels are burned. Given its undetectable nature, it is important to know the sources of CO, the symptoms of exposure, and what to do if you suspect someone has been exposed. The best precaution against carbon monoxide poisoning on a boat is to install and maintain a marine-grade CO detector, which works similarly to a smoke alarm. In addition, it is important to ensure proper ventilation by keeping windows, hatches, and ports open to allow fresh air to circulate throughout the boat.

Install and maintain a working CO detector

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, and deadly gas. It is produced when carbon-bearing fuels such as gasoline, diesel, LP gas, coal, or wood are burned. CO poisoning can be avoided by installing and maintaining a working CO detector designed for marine use.

CO detectors are not usually tested for effectiveness or accuracy, and most have a finite lifespan. It is important to install a CO detector in every cabin or accommodation space where someone might sleep or nap. Marine CO detectors operate from the vessel's own 12- or 24-volt house DC power supply, while those for homes and businesses typically run on 120-volt AC or internal AA or 9-volt batteries. The DC power supply is more reliable as shore power is not always available on boats, and batteries may go dead without warning.

CO detectors should be wired in the "always energized" mode, meaning they always use current, even when no CO is present. This means they can drain a battery, so it is important to wire them to the "load" or "output" side of the house battery switch so that they are only operational when the boat is occupied. It is also important to replace CO detectors every five years or according to the manufacturer's replacement interval.

In addition to installing and maintaining a CO detector, it is important to take other precautions against CO poisoning. These include keeping areas with protective coverings well-ventilated, ensuring all fuel-burning engines and appliances are certified for marine use, and keeping engine and generator exhaust outlets—which contain the highest concentration of CO—ventilated and inaccessible.

Avoid idling and travelling at slow speeds

Travelling at slow speeds or idling in the water can cause carbon monoxide to build up in a boat's cabin, cockpit, bridge, and aft deck, or in an open area. Wind from the aft section of the boat can increase this buildup of carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that is produced when fossil fuels are burnt. It is one of the top five causes of death among boaters and can cause sudden illness and death. CO is produced by gasoline-powered engines on boats, including onboard generators.

To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning while boating, it is important to maintain a constant flow of fresh air throughout the boat, especially in enclosed areas. Keep all areas of the boat, including protective coverings, well-ventilated at all times, even during bad weather. Ensure that all fuel-burning engines and appliances are certified for marine use and only use them in well-ventilated areas.

In addition to maintaining proper ventilation, it is crucial to install and regularly maintain CO detectors inside your boat. Replace the batteries and detectors as recommended by the manufacturer. By taking these precautions, you can help protect yourself and others from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning while boating.

It is also important to be aware of the symptoms of CO poisoning, which include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. If you or anyone on your boat is experiencing these symptoms, move to fresh air immediately and seek emergency medical assistance.

Ensure proper ventilation

Ensuring proper ventilation is a crucial step in preventing carbon monoxide poisoning on boats. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless, and deadly gas produced by the burning of carbon-based fuels, such as gasoline. It can quickly accumulate in enclosed spaces, making proper ventilation essential. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure proper ventilation and protect yourself and others:

Maintain Good Air Circulation

Keep fresh air circulating throughout the boat at all times, even during unfavourable weather. This helps prevent the buildup of CO, which can occur in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas. Keep areas with protective coverings, such as canopies or canvas enclosures, well-ventilated. Open foredeck hatches, windows, and ports to allow fresh air to flow through the vessel.

Avoid Idling and Slow Speeds

Travelling at slow speeds or idling in the water can cause CO to accumulate in enclosed spaces, such as cabins, cockpits, and open areas. Avoid prolonged periods of idling and travelling at slow speeds to prevent CO buildup. Keep the boat's engine and generator running only when necessary, especially when the boat is not moving.

Regular Maintenance

Regularly inspect and maintain the boat's engine, exhaust system, and ventilation louvers. Look for leaks in the exhaust system and check for any discolouration, water leaks, carbon buildup, or stains. Ensure all ventilation systems are in good working condition and are not blocked, restricted, or punctured. Proper maintenance helps prevent CO buildup and ensures efficient airflow.

Stay Away from Exhaust Outlets

Engine and generator exhaust outlets can have high concentrations of CO. Keep these areas well-ventilated and avoid lingering near them. Never enter areas under swim platforms where exhaust outlets are located, as even a few breaths in these areas could be fatal. Stay away from the transom, where CO is known to collect, especially when the vessel is idling or underway.

Be Mindful of Other Boats

Carbon monoxide from nearby boats can also pose a risk. When docked, tied to a raft, or anchored near other boats, ensure that their exhaust does not enter your vessel. Maintain a safe distance of at least 20 feet from other boats that have running engines or generators. Be aware of boats that may be idling for extended periods, as they can be a significant source of CO.

Know the symptoms of CO poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can cause sudden illness and even death. CO is an odorless, colourless, and tasteless gas that is produced when fossil fuels are burnt. It can be released by many household items, including gas- and oil-burning furnaces, portable generators, and charcoal grills. It can also be produced by gasoline-powered engines on boats, including onboard generators.

The most common symptoms of CO poisoning include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Upset stomach/nausea
• Vomiting
• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heartbeat
• Seizures
• Disorientation
• Loss of consciousness or coma

These symptoms can often be mistaken for the flu or food poisoning. However, it's important to note that CO poisoning can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. If you or someone around you is experiencing any of these symptoms, move to fresh air right away and contact emergency services.

People with existing health problems, such as heart and lung disease, as well as infants, children, pregnant people, and older adults, are at a greater risk of harm from CO poisoning. Additionally, high levels of CO inhalation can cause someone to pass out and fall into water, leading to drowning. Therefore, it is crucial to be vigilant and take immediate action if you suspect CO poisoning.

Keep away from the rear deck or platform

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless gas that is essentially undetectable by human senses. It is produced when an engine that uses carbon-based fuel is running, and it can be deadly. CO poisoning can cause sudden illness and death, but it can be prevented.

The rear deck or platform of a boat is a common area for CO to accumulate, especially on larger boats like houseboats, which have generators that vent towards the rear of the boat. This venting poses a direct danger of CO poisoning to anyone occupying the rear deck or platform.

To avoid this danger, it is imperative that you never sit, swim, or congregate near or under the rear deck or platform while the engine or generator is on. Boating safety experts recommend avoiding this area for at least 15 minutes after the engine has been shut off to ensure that any built-up CO has dissipated.

Additionally, be mindful of other boats nearby that may be idling or running a generator for extended periods while docked. Their CO emissions can also pose a risk to your boat, especially if exhaust from their engines enters your boat due to the ''station wagon effect' or 'back drafting'.

By staying clear of the rear deck or platform, you significantly reduce the risk of CO poisoning for yourself and others on board. This simple precaution can help ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience for all.

Frequently asked questions