Imagine that you are in water up to your neck; you are sinking, and you cannot move your arms and legs. To make matters worse, anyone who jumps in to aid you will suffer the same fate. The name of this real-life horror show is electric shock drowning, and it has claimed dozens of lives at docks and marinas over more than four decades. Happily, this tragedy is avoidable by building on the common-sense boating steps you are already taking. You carry OC boat insurance; you observe boating courtesy; you and your passengers always wear life vests. As boating ramps up this spring, it’s time to bring the same commitment to electric shock drowning prevention.

Understand How ESD Happens

ESD begins with an electrical fault occurring on a boat connected to shore power. The current then leaks into the surrounding water. Because human body fluid is a surprisingly effective conductor, a swimmer in this electrified water is at peril. A current as low as 10 milliamperes impairs movement. A 50 milliampere current imposes paralysis. At 60 milliamperes, cardiac arrest and death are possible.

Although most ESD incidents occur in freshwater, saltwater fatalities have occurred with swimmers close to a current-leaking vessel. Whether in a lake or the ocean, avoid swimming near a shore-powered boat. With that lesson in mind, you can commit to making sure your yacht is never the cause of an ESD tragedy.

Head Off Electrical Leaks

Shore power cords frequently cause electrical faults. Examine your cord blades for pits and corrosion. Take an extra half-minute to stow your cord carefully, and don’t over-flex the connector ends. With your cord squared away, keep in mind the role of these devices in leak prevention:

• Galvanic Isolators: Standard equipment in most boats since the mid-nineties, galvanic isolators are corrosion-inhibiting components of a vessel’s electrical system. Because early model galvanic isolators leak lethal electric current if they fail, owners of older boats should have a qualified electrician upgrade this device without delay.
• ELCIs: An equipment leakage circuit interrupter monitors the current coming into a boat from an onshore pylon. If an ELCI detects a leak exceeding 30 milliamps, it shuts off the shore power instantly. If your boat has an ELCI, use the device’s test button once a month. If your vessel is an older boat without an ELCI, strongly consider having an electrician certified by the American Boat and Yacht Council install this safety upgrade.
• Isolation Transformers: A marine isolation transformer bests ELCIs in safety and provides better corrosion protection than galvanic isolators. The latest generation of isolation transformers weigh 45 pounds and cost about $900, making them practical for larger pleasure boats.

Weighed against the consequences, your investments in electric shock drowning prevention are well worth the cost. Adding these prudent measures to your OC boat insurance helps keep your boating safe and exhilarating.

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 (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.