Marina Hazards > Carbon Monoxide Emissions
In our previous post, we covered some of the major threats that people face while swimming in marinas. One of the biggest yet most silent killers is carbon monoxide poisoning, which threatens people of all ages. Unbeknownst to them, the symptoms of carbon monoxide can take a rapid toll on those freely swimming in marinas. In this article, we’ll explore how to prevent poisoning the waters and the people in it. To protect your vessel from front to back, secure your investment with a comprehensive Boat Insurance policy.
Get a CO detector.
This is the best way to alert boaters if too much carbon monoxide has built up in the boat’s cabin. The symptoms of CO poisoning are subtle at first, such as tiredness and nausea, so the symptoms can be ignored or passed off as minor until the worst occurs. Even with port windows and doors shut, CO can still seep in if it’s not ventilated enough.
Steer clear.
Dock, beach, or anchor at least 20 feet away from the nearest boat that is running a generator or engine. Exhaust from a nearby vessel can send CO into the cabin and cockpit of a boat, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Allow exhaust ventilation.
Engine exhaust should be adequately ventilated. If not, the CO can build up in the marina or in the cockpit, regardless of the doors and windows being closed. For this same reason, swimmers should never swim within 50 feet of a running boat. There are dedicated swimming areas for this reason, so make use of them to protect your loved ones.
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts, and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (800) 992-4443 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
