Boat Maintenance Tips To Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
From the U.S. Coast Guard
Do not operate your boat without doing the following:
Trip Checklist for Carbon Monoxide
• Make sure you know where exhaust outlets are located on your vessel.
• Educate all passengers about the symptoms of CO poisoning and where CO may accumulate.
• When docked, or rafted with another boat or boats, be aware of exhaust emissions from the other boat(s).
• Confirm that water flows from the exhaust outlet when the engines and generator are started.
• Listen for any change in exhaust sound, which could indicate an exhaust component failure.
• Test the operation of each CO detector by pressing the test button.
Boater’s Monthly Maintenance Checklist
• Make sure all exhaust clamps are in place and secure.
• Look for exhaust leaking from exhaust system components.
• Signs include rust and/or black streaking, water leaks, or corroded or cracked fittings.
• Inspect rubber exhaust hoses for burned, cracked, or deteriorated sections.
• All rubber hoses should be pliable and free of kinks.
Annual Checklist• Have a qualified marine technician replace exhaust hoses if cracking, charring, or deterioration is found. • Ensure that your engines and generators are properly tuned and well maintained. • Inspect water pump impeller and water pump housing. Replace if worn. Make sure cooling systems are in working. • Inspect all metallic exhaust components, including the cylinder head gasket, exhaust manifold, water injection elbow, and the threaded adapter nipple between the manifold and the elbow, for cracking, rusting, leaking, or loosening. • Clean, inspect, and confirm proper operation of the generator cooling water anti-siphon valve (if so equipped) Source: www.uscg.gov
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