Carbon Monoxide on Your Boat: What You Don’t See Can Harm You

There is growing evidence that Carbon Monoxide-related illnesses, injuries, and fatalities on the water may be far greater than reported.  The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is asking recreational boaters to take special care during the busy July 4^th holiday weekend, and any time they are on the water.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, tasteless, and highly toxic gas produced by boat engines, generators, and stoves.  Some boaters are aware that CO can accumulate inside engine compartments, and few understand that the gas can pool in deadly concentrations outside the boat as well – around engine and generate exhaust outlets, under and around swim platforms, and even in an open cabin when conditions are right.  Many boating safety professionals believe that Carbon Monoxide-related injuries and fatalities may go under-reported because they are attributed to other causes such as seasickness or intoxication.  There is growing concern that as many as 15% of the deaths attributed to drowning, in fact, occurred when a swimmer was already unconscious from exposure to Carbon Monoxide.
Boaters can greatly reduce the risk to themselves and their passengers by following a few simple suggestions.  Know where exhaust outlets for the engines and generator are on the boat, and keep everyone clear.  Understand how and where CO can accumulate – for example, when slow speeds and a following wind cerate a backdraft that draws CO into the cabin.  Never allow high-risk behaviors like leak surfing.  Do not sit or hang on, under, or around back deck or swim platforms when the engine or generator is running.  Treat symptoms, such as headache, dizziness, and nausea, as possible CO poisonings until another cause is pinpointed.

Remember – It’s About Time.  Boat Safe; Boat Fun.