Carbon monoxide
Potential sources of carbon monoxide gas on your boat
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless toxic gas which can be fatal. Be aware of potential sources of carbon monoxide gas when you're boating.
- When two vessels are tied to each other;
- When you are docked alongside a seawall;
- When your load causes the bow to ride high;
- When a fuel-burning device or the engine is running while your vessel is idling;
- When there are swimmers between the pontoons of your boat.
Also, on larger boats such as houseboats, vents can cause CO build up along the water near the rear swim deck or water platform.
How to protect yourself and others from carbon monoxide poisoning on your boat:
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Only run the engine at idle in well ventilated areas;
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Only heat the cabin, or do the cooking when there is proper ventilation;
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Make sure extensions and cabin areas, including canvas awnings, are well ventilated;
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Only use motors or fuel-burning devices that are certified or designed for maritime use, and make sure that they are used only in well ventilated areas;
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Install a carbon monoxide detector designed for boats and check the batteries before every departure.
If a person is suspected of having carbon monoxide poisoning, what action should be taken?
