Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide can collect within, alongside or behind a boat in minutes in a variety of ways. If anyone on board complains of irritated eyes, headache, nausea, weakness or dizziness, immediately move the person to fresh air, investigate the cause and take corrective action. Seek medical attention, if necessary. Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and tasteless, and mixes evenly with the air. Areas of concern include the rear deck near the swim platform when the engine is running. Regular maintenance and proper boat operation can reduce the risk of injury from carbon monoxide.

Since skiing activities often involve persons being in and around the boat stern, near or on the swimstep, or in the water adjacent to the stern, operators should make sure that the engine is off so that no one is poisoned by the fumes from an idling engine. Water ski lines are typically long enough to minimize exposure to exhaust fumes, but those who ski on shorter lines risk increased exposure.