How to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning on a Boat
Carbon monoxide poisoning on a boat can be extremely dangerous and, in some cases, fatal. Fortunately, there are some critical ways to avoid this type of poisoning and reduce the risk.
If you're unsure about how to protect yourself and have the proper safety equipment for CO risk reduction, here's what to consider.
Understanding the Risks
The first thing to learn about carbon monoxide is what it is and why it's dangerous, especially on boats. You also want to know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning so you can spot the problem and get help for anyone who needs it.
What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause serious health issues or even death. It's produced by engines, generators, grills, and other fuel-burning appliances on boats.
While there's no way to avoid having CO around your boat (unless it's completely electric or has no engine or other fuel-burning items) there are ways to minimize the risks.
Why is CO Dangerous on Boats?
Enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces trap CO, increasing the risk of poisoning. Many boats have below-deck areas and other locations where carbon monoxide can accumulate.
Symptoms of CO poisoning include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
If you notice any symptoms in yourself or others, getting fresh air as quickly as possible is essential.
What is Open Air Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
When it comes to carbon monoxide, boating poses a special risk. Sitting still on the water, such as at a dock with other boats nearby, can increase the risk of CO poisoning, even if your boat's engine isn't running.
Especially on a calm, still day, the CO from your vessel or the vessels of others can linger in the air and build up to dangerous levels.
Preventative Measures to Avoid CO Poisoning When Boating
You can reduce carbon monoxide boating risks with the proper steps. By taking the time for preventative measures, you can save lives.
Install and Maintain CO Detectors
One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning on a boat is to use carbon monoxide detectors.
Place them in sleeping and living areas, and regularly test and replace their batteries as needed. If CO builds up in that location, the detector will alert anyone in the area to move to fresh air.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Keep windows, hatches, and doors open when running engines or generators, and avoid operating equipment in enclosed spaces. Doing this ensures you're doing your part to keep carbon monoxide from building up on your vessel and putting you or your passengers in harm's way.
Conduct Regular Maintenance
To lower CO risks, inspect and service engines, exhaust systems, and fuel-burning appliances regularly.
Examine your exhaust system for leaks, cracks, or blockages, and have any issues you find repaired before using your vessel again. Regular boat maintenance will help prevent carbon monoxide from entering your boat and causing harm.
Avoid the Danger Zones
Stay clear of the areas near exhaust outlets while your boat's engine is running, but that's not the only dangerous place to be. You should also be cautious of the "station wagon effect," where exhaust fumes re-enter the cabin due to air currents.
Never Block Exhaust Outlets
It's critical to make sure that nothing obstructs the flow of exhaust gases and that vents and outlets remain free of debris and water. Any carbon monoxide in or around your vessel must be able to escape efficiently so it doesn't put anyone on board at risk.
Operate Generators Safely
Run generators only when adequately ventilated, and never run a generator while docked or near other boats unless all precautions are in place. Otherwise, you could accidentally create a carbon monoxide problem on another vessel.
Safety Best Practices to Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning on a Boat
When you're ready to head out on the water, make sure to follow crucial safety practices to minimize CO risk and enjoy your time on the boat.
Educate Your Crew and Passengers
Share information about carbon monoxide risks and symptoms with everyone on board, and ensure everyone knows how to respond to a CO alarm.
Awareness is a crucial factor in ensuring safety and protection from carbon monoxide.
Practice Safe Anchoring
Position your boat to allow proper airflow and minimize CO buildup. Also, avoid anchoring near other boats with running engines, especially in calm conditions.
Respond to Symptoms Immediately
If anyone shows signs of CO poisoning, shut off all engines and appliances, get fresh air, and seek medical attention. It's essential to ensure that anyone with suspected carbon monoxide poisoning receives help as soon as possible.
Be Aware of Weather Conditions
Using a NOAA weather radio can help you plan for your day on the water, including protecting yourself from open-air carbon monoxide poisoning.
As we mentioned earlier, this happens when rain or calm waters trap CO close to the boat and stop it from dissipating. It can happen unexpectedly to people who only think of carbon monoxide poisoning as a problem in enclosed spaces, so it's essential to practice awareness.
Stay Vigilant and Learn More With a Boater Education Course
Avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning on a boat starts with vigilance and regular maintenance. Prevention is the key to a safe and enjoyable boating experience while protecting yourself and others.
To keep yourself and your passengers safe on the water, start with a boat education course like the courses we offer here through Boat-Ed. You'll learn about boating etiquette, safety equipment, navigation, and more!
Plus, most states and Canada require boaters to pass a course and carry a safety certification. The best way to do that is to take a fun, informative course through Boat-Ed.
In the U.S., choose the course for your state. In Canada, choose our interactive course for Canadians.
