Section 1 • Safety
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are dizziness, ears ringing, headaches, nausea, and unconsciousness. Get fresh air if anyone shows signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, and/or if carbon monoxide detector alarm sounds.
A poisoning victim's skin often turns cherry red. Because carbon monoxide gas (CO) is odorless, colorless and tasteless, it is unlikely to be noticed until a person is overcome.
Dangerous concentrations of carbon monoxide will be present if:
•there is an exhaust leak
•a nearby vessel's engine is running
•insufficient fresh air is circulating where people are present
•fumes move from the rear of the boat into the cockpit and cabin area
Figure 1.3.1 gives examples of boat operating conditions that can lead to high concentrations of carbon monoxide gas.
To minimize the danger of CO accumulation when the engine is running or using fuel burning appliances:
•Be sure to have sufficient ventilation when using canvas or window-type side curtains when underway, anchored, moored, or docked.
•If a convertible or camper top is installed, operate with the forward hatch open and leave cabin door open.
•Operate all fuel burning appliances, such as charcoal, propane, LPG, CNG, or alcohol cooking devices in areas where fresh air can circulate. Do not use such devices where there is no noticeable air movement, especially in the cabin, when anchored, moored, or docked.
•Do not idle engine without moving boat for more than 15 minutes at a time.
•Inspect exhaust system regularly. (See Section 8, Required Inspection, Service and Maintenance.)
If CO poisoning is suspected, have the victim breathe fresh air deeply. If breathing stops, resuscitate. A victim often revives, then relapses because organs are damaged by lack of oxygen. Seek immediate medical attention.
Carbon Monoxide Monitor
Your boat may have a carbon monoxide (CO) monitor mounted in the cabin. The CO monitor is an electronic instrument that detects CO. When there is a
Read and understand the CO monitor information and operating instructions. It is extremely important that you become totally familiar with your CO monitor and its functions.
Examples of How High Levels of Carbon Monoxide |
| |
May Accumulate |
|
|
(Fig 1.3.1) | Illustration #A | Illustration #D |
Blocking Hull Exhausts. Operating |
| Operating engine and/or generator |
at slow speed or dead in the water. |
| in confined spaces. |
| Illustration #B | Illustration #E |
|
|
Using canvas curtains. | Operating with the bow high. |
Illustration #C | Illustration #F |
Winds blowing exhaust | Good ventilation. | |
toward boat occupants. | ||
|
35 Outlaw® | 1.3 |
