Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/983072
www.pdbmagazine.com Pontoon & Deck Boat June 2018 46 Right up front let me state that yes, I know that most outboard boats do not have the same risk when fueling as inboard boats. Nevertheless, being in the insurance industry reminds me that there are still lessons learned and things boat operators should consider when fueling their boats. Anyway, years ago I did a stint as a shop teacher. When I taught theory of the automobile to high school kids, I would take a small clear jar with less than a cup of gasoline and slowly pour out only the vapors into a small bowl. The students would always make comments about not seeing anything in the bowl, and that I was just a crazy teacher. However, after I did the pour, I would light a wooden match and put it in the bowl and ignite the "nothingness" they thought was not there. They were always surprised, but it reinforced the fact liquid gasoline is not the biggest risk; it is the vapors from the gasoline being moved, poured or jostled that is the greater danger. Which brings me to fueling your boat. One thing boat owners often do without thinking is fueling. Many of us make basic mistakes during fueling which can be detrimental to personal safety and the boat. Watch the news; you will read about it happening at marina fueling docks around the country. First, it is important to understand your boat and fuel system. Any inboard gasoline engine will require a blower system to help vent fumes and a spark arrestor to reduce flames in the event of a backfire. Fuel injection and electronic ignitions have helped reduce the risk, but it is still present. Diesel engines do not have the same risk, but they have their own issues. One other thing. Make sure the open end of the blower hose in the bilge is clear. You would be surprised how many boats I have seen where the hose is blocked by leaves, ropes, life jackets, rags…you get the idea. If the blower can't carry out the fumes it really doesn't matter if you use it. Oh, and just because you have outboard engines doesn't mean you don't have fuel risks. Any fuel system can leak, release vapors and cause fires. I think it's in the owner's best interest (and safety) to still take appropriate precautions when fueling. If you have blowers, you need to turn the blowers on (or leave them on) between starts when you are using the boat for water sports. Each time you shut down you risk fuel vapor buildup and you'll have people climbing in and out of the boat jostling the fuel creating a vapor risk, so don't restart if you haven't run the blower. Okay, what can you do as a boat owner? Follow just a few simple guidelines. The same ones you probably learned when you started boating. I hope that the following simple fueling checklist will help you safely refuel your boat. Some of this will seem like "common sense" but hey, we still forget things. Oh, and if you have any ideas let me know, my checklists are always flexible and I change them depending on the boat or situation I am in. Refueling Check List • Secure boat to the dock. • Shut off the engine(s). • Remove all passengers from the boat. • Locate your fire extinguisher and make sure it's operable and accessible. • Put out any open flames (no smoking and make sure the barbecue grill on the rail is cold). • Don't use electrical switches while fueling. Some people feel you should shut off the stereo and other electrical devices. • Determine and use the proper type of fuel. • Be certain you are putting fuel in fuel tank (not the holding or fresh water or even the rod holder). • Always fuel slowly and do not overfill. • If you have a blower, turn it on at least four minutes (some people think that's too long but that's the recommended time). And if possible some people like to open the engine compartment or the fuel tank compartment to release any fumes. • Do the sniff test and see if you smell fumes. • DO NOT start engine(s) until all fumes are gone. Staying In 'Toon Boating tips and observations with Sky Smith Refueling Safety Tips By Sky Smith