Appropriate safety precautions are important before, during, and after fueling.
Before fueling the first time, be familiar with the instructions provided by the engine
manufacturer.
1. Fuel docks should be approached at reasonable speed without wake. Observe
posted speed limits and instructions. Be considerate of others using the docks,
and watch for a dockmaster or hand who might give you instructions. Maintain
control of your boat at all times and have dock lines ready for use before your
approach in the event that these are unavailable at the dock.
2. Use bow, stern and spring lines to properly secure your boat.
3. Close and secure al hatches and ports.
4. FORBID SMOKING while taking on fuel on or near fuel docks. Completely
extinguish all smoking materials well in advance of approaching the docks; do not
recommence until you are well clear of it after fueling and conditions aboard are
safe to do so.
5. Extinguish any other open flames aboard and see that all equipment (e.g., engine,
stove, cabin heater, radios, and lights – both lanterns and electrical lights, etc.)
which may generate heat or sparks of any kind are turned OFF…Turn off all
switches for branch circuits so that there are no live electrical circuits. Main
switch should also be turned off AFTER engine is stopped (to prevent alternator
damage).
6. If possible, crew members not involved in fueling should leave the boat.
7. An adequate fire extinguisher (U.S.C.G. approved for Class B fires) should be
readily available in case of emergency.
8. Remove fill fitting. Be certain that you are putting fuel into the fuel tank. Note
the approximate amount required to fill the tank by either looking at the level
gauge or use a clean stick to determine the level of fuel in the tank.
9. Be certain (double check) that you are taking on the appropriate fuel. Errors of
this type do occur and will result in serious engine damage if not immediately
detected and corrected.
10. Maintain contact between the nozzle of the fuel hose and the fill pipe rim to
prevent generation of static electricity sparks.
11. Fill slowly to about 85% of capacity. Do not overfill (allowance must be made
for thermal expansion of fuel without overflow).
12. Replace and secure fill fitting after fueling. Carefully clean any spillage. Check
fuel tank vents at stern for overflow. Check below decks and in bilge for fumes
or leakage. If fumes or leakage are present, adequately ventilate and clean areas
completely before proceeding
.
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