SPECIAL SAFETY MESSAGES
Carbon Monoxide and Boating
Burning a material containing carbon produces carbon monoxide (CO), an odor-
less and colorless gas. Because CO has a similar density as air, it can spread
throughout an enclosed space unnoticed because you cannot see it or smell it.
Any device used to burn carbon-based materials on a boat can be a source of CO.
Common sources of CO include internal combustion engines.
CO reacts with the blood to reduce the ability of the blood to carry oxygen. The re-
duced oxygen supply to body tissues results in death of the tissue. Prolonged ex-
posure can cause brain damage or death. In high concentrations, CO can be fatal
within minutes. The effects of CO in lower concentrations are cumulative and can
be just as lethal over long periods of time.
Symptoms of CO poisoning include: Itchy and watering eyes, flushed appear-
ance, throbbing temples, inability to think coherently, ringing in the ears, tightness
across the chest, headaches, drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, vomiting,
collapse, and convulsions. If any of these symptoms are evident, begin treatme
nt
immediately. Prompt action can make the difference between life and death.
– Evacuate the area and move the victim to fresh air.
– Administer oxygen if available and get medical help.
– Open all canvas enclosures to ventilate the area.
– Investigate the source of CO and take immediate corrective action.
– Be especially aware of other CO sources which may be near boat.
Carbon Monoxide Accumulation
Following are examples of possible situations where CO may accumulate within
your boat while docked, anchored, or underway. Become famil
iar with these
examples and their precautions to prevent personal injury or death.
WARNING
Exhaust fumes! Generator or hull exhaust from other vessels while either
docked or anchored can emit poisonous CO gas and cause excessive ac-
cumulation within cabin and cockpit areas. Be alert for generator exhaust
from your vessel or other vessels alongside. Exhaust outlets near a pier,
dock, seawall or outlets blocked by any other means can cause excessive
accumulation of poisonous CO gas within cockpit area.
F00A2HL
VESSEL ALONGSIDE
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SAFETY I
NFORMATION
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