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Chapter 8: Operator Responsibility

Carbon Monoxide Safety

Carbon monoxide can potentially build up in areas near the exhaust vents of inboard engines, outboard engines, and generators. For this reason, this gas poses a very serious threat to boaters.

Carbon Monoxide is especially dangerous because it is odorless, tasteless, and colorless. It is often called "the silent killer" because it can be so difficult to notice, and one never realizes the affects until it is too late.

Steer clear of these exhaust vents whenever the motor or generator is running and never swim nearby. For safety, wait at least 15 minutes after the motor or generator has been shut off before nearing these vents.

Also, never enter the area under a swim platform where the exhaust is vented. These locations are hazardous and are sometimes referred to as "death chambers." Because of the severe buildup of carbon monoxide, it can take only one or two breaths in these areas to fatally poison someone.

Never block exhaust vents. This can cause carbon monoxide to build up in the cockpit or cabin areas since it cannot be properly ventilated. Even if one opens the windows, hatches, and doors, carbon monoxide can still build up if the exhaust is blocked.

Watch Out for Backdrafting

Watch Out for Backdrafting

Backdrafting happens when there's an opening which draws exhaust into the boat and is sometimes called the "station wagon effect." This dangerous situation can also happen if the boat's bow is up at a high angle.

Caution When Idling

Caution When Idling

Be careful when idling. Moving at slow speeds or idling in the water can lead to a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide in the cabin, cockpit, bridge, or aft even if one is idling in an open area. A tailwind could increase that accumulation and make it even more dangerous to remain idle with the engine/generator running for too long.

Keep Your Distance From Other Vessels

Keep Your Distance From Other Vessels

Other boats that are docked, anchored, or beached near a vessel can emit carbon monoxide in one's 1direction. The dangerous gas can build up in the cabin and cockpit of a boat. So, keep at least 20 feet from any other boat which is running its engine or generator.

Refrain From Teak Surfing

Refrain From Teak Surfing

Teak surfing refers to holding onto any part of a power-driven vessel's transom while the vessel is underway or while the engine is idling. Teak surfing can be fatal if done within 20 feet of a moving watercraft and is sometimes referred to as platform dragging. Similarly, never let passengers sit on the stern swim step if the engine is running