200 Dauntless - Boston Whaler

Section 1• SafetyCarbon Monoxide (CO)Carbon Monoxide is an oderless, colorless, andtasteless, extremely toxic gas produced by engines,heaters, stoves or generators. When inhaled itcombines with hemoglobin in the blood, preventingabsorption of oxygen and is unlikely to be noticeduntil the person is overcome.Prolonged exposure to low concentration or veryshort exposure to high concentrations can result inasphyxiation and death.Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning include:• Dizziness• Ringing in the ears• Unconsiousness! DANGER• Fumes from the engine(s), Generator(s)and other equipment and appliancesthat burn fuel contain Carbon Monoxide.Carbon Monoxide can kill you. Open alldoors, hatches, curtains and windows toallow fresh air to circulate and dissipatethe amounts of Carbon Monoxidepresent in enclosed spaces, especiallywhen the boat is moored or anchored.• Proper ventilation must bemaintained, even during inclementweather to prevent dangerous levels ofCarbon Monoxide build-up.• Sleeping aboard a boat will require aworking Carbon monoxide detectionsystem, preferably in each sleepingquarter.• Headaches• NauseaGET MEDICAL ATTENTION AS SOON ASPOSSIBLE.Symptoms of CO poisoning are often confused withseasickness or intoxication, so those affected may notreceive the medical attention they need.The poisoning victim’s skin often turns cherry red.If CO poisoning is suspected, have the victim breathfresh air deeply. If breathing stops, resusitate. Avictim often revives, then relapses because organsare damaged by lack of oxygen.Carbon Monoxide can accumulate in dangerousconcentrations anywhere in or around your boatincluding on back decks, swim platforms, or inwater around generator exhausts. CO can remain inor around your boat at dangerus levels even if yourengine is no longer running.Remember:• If you can smell engine exhaust, you areinhaling CO.• Changing course and speed to place boatheading into the wind can improveventilation.To minimize the danger of Carbon Monoxideaccumulation when the Engine is running (or by useof fuel burning equipment.):• Do not idle the engine without moving theboat for more than 15 minutes at a time.• Inspect the exhaust system regularly.• Operate all fuel burning appliances, such ascharcoal, propane, LPG, CNG or alcoholcooking devices in areas where fresh air cancirculate.! DANGERNever ignore an alarm.In the event the CO alarm activates:• Evacuate enclosed areas immediately.• Shut OFF any fuel burning equipment orappliances.• Open hatches, doors, portlights, etc. toimprove ventilation.• If making way, head boat into the wind.1-6 200 DauntlessR