Fuel Your Boat Safely

Fueling a boat is a routine task, but a few simple precautions can make it much safer.

Gasoline vapors are highly explosive. Before gassing up, turn off the engine and all electrical equipment, including radios and other devices that could create a spark. Extinguish cigarettes, vaping pens, and other devices that generate heat.

If your boat has a cabin or under-deck hatches, close them to prevent fuel vapors from collecting. Make sure everyone is off the boat and keep the fuel nozzle in contact with the fill opening to reduce the possibility of static electricity sparks. If you use portable tanks, fill them on the dock rather than aboard the boat.

Don’t overfill the tank. Fuel expands as it warms, so leave a little room for expansion and don’t top off a tank after the nozzle has automatically shut off. Wipe up any spilled fuel immediately and dispose of fuel-soaked materials properly at the gas dock.

After fueling, open hatches and compartments and sniff for any gasoline fumes. Make sure no fuel has collected in the bilge. If you see or smell gasoline, do not start the engine! If your boat has a blower or ventilation system, operate it for a full four minutes before starting the engine.

With these simple tips, you’ll soon be safely fueled up and ready for another day on the lake!