Here at Safeguard we feel the issue of Carbon Monoxide poisoning is a very important message that needs to be shared to avoid future incidents. It is important in the event you smell exhaust fumes in the cabin that you evacuate the cabin immediately as this could possibly be a sign of CO poisoning.
The early symptoms of CO poisoning are very similar to that of the flu for example, headaches, dizziness, nausea. You can take a few simple steps to avoid CO poisoning such as:
- Properly install and maintain all fuel-burning engines and appliances
- Educating all people on board about the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning
- Never block exhaust outlets. Blocking outlets can cause CO to build up in the cabin and cockpit areas–even when hatches, windows, portholes, and doors are closed.
- Dock, 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.