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Guernsey’s Coastguard is encouraging local boat owners to be aware of the “silent killer” carbon monoxide and take appropriate precautions, following several fatal incidents in the UK over the past decade.
Nine deaths caused by gas poisoning aboard personal vessels have been recorded by the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) since 2013.
An accident last year, which killed two men in the cockpit of the sports cruise Emma Louise, led to HM Government issuing safety messages about the need to install and maintain gas alarms, ensure adequate cabin ventilation, and that exhaust outlets are clear from obstruction.
Assistant Harbourmaster James Way said “there are many sources of it on boats, including engines, cookers, heaters and exhaust fumes.
“Carbon monoxide cannot be seen, smelt, tasted or felt. When you breathe in carbon monoxide, it replaces the oxygen in your blood stream, preventing essential supplies to your heart, brain and other vital organs.
“This makes it essential that carbon monoxide alarms are installed and properly maintained in areas where carbon monoxide can accumulate and pose a risk to health, such as the cabins and cockpits of motor cruisers.
“Boat users should ensure that all spaces are well-ventilated, and exhausts should be kept clear from obstructions. You should never ignore the smell of exhaust fumes in any enclosed space.”
Full safety guidance can be found HERE.
The Marine Accident Investigation branch issued guidance on Carbon Monoxide (CO) hazards on pleasure crafts. Guernsey Coastguard & Ports urge owners to prevent CO build-up to protect themselves and passengers.
— Guernsey Coastguard (@GsyCoastguard) May 17, 2023
See MAIB report for more info: https://t.co/LcSZn5yxUO pic.twitter.com/CiJgKT8QEW
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