Gasoline vapors can remain behind and build up in the engine compartment of a boat, even after its ventilation system blowers have running for more than four minutes. Gasoline vapor is flammable and pose an explosion hazard if ignited. Reducing the risk of fire or explosion depends on eliminating flammable gasses and sources of ignition. Proper maintenance, safe fueling practices, and use of approved parts will easily accomplish this safety task.
Preventive Maintenance - Poorly maintained boats pose a greater risk for fire or explosion. Loose, corroded, or frayed electrical wires and cables can cause sparks. Inadequately mounted lead-acid battery can shift in the engine compartment. Cracked, broken and weathered fuel lines can lead to gasoline leaks into the engine compartment. Fuel filters can rust, corrode, or freeze, causing leaks of their own.
Safe Fueling Practices - Improper fueling can cause a spill or worse. Follow established safe procedures for fueling your vessel. Clearly label the fuel caps on your boat. There have been countless instances were a boater has attempted to pump fuel into a rod holder or water tank filling port. Improperly stowed portable fuel tanks can create a fire hazard.
Ignition Protection - The simplest way to reduce the risk of explosion on a gasoline-powered boat is to remove sources of heat and ignition. Electrically powered components like the bilge pump, starter, blower fan, alternator and distributor can be equipped with screens that prevent sparks from escaping the component into the engine compartment where explosive fumes could be present. Conventional engine carburetors approved for marine use are also equipped with a screen or baffle to control flames generated from backfires.
Marine Approved Parts - Engine parts built for boats are designed to provide ignition protection and reduce sparks. While automotive parts may work in a marine application, their use will put you at risk of explosion. Electrical components must meet construction standards established by the US Coast Guard under Title 46 of the United States Code or Transport Canada's Construction Standards for Small Vessels TP1332.
Safeguard family and friends from an inadvertent boat explosion caused by using unapproved electrical components your vessel. Perform needed maintenance as required and monitor the condition of your engine and its components. If you want to see the consequences of using automotive parts n a boat, Transport Canada has documented the explosion of a gasoline-powered boat in Halifax harbor during the summer of 2004. Their video clip titled, “Boom! Up She Went” is available from Transport Canada's Office of Boating Safety.
Alan Sorum - Alan Sorum is the Maritime Operations Project Manager for the Prince William Sound Regional Citizens' Advisory Council (PWSRCAC). Alan is ...
