Keep Blower OFF While Fueling

A boat does not have to be in the water to have fuel vapors waiting for a spark.

Last week we ran a story about a small boat blowing up in a man’s driveway. Capt.
Steve suggested that if one was in a hurry while refueling the blower could be run
simultaneously to save time. Several of our eagle-eyed readers took strong issue
with this advice – and they are right! We stand corrected. The National Fire Protection
Association recommendations say that while fueling, all engines, motors and fans
should be shut down. The logic is that if a blower is running while refueling, gas
vapors can be sucked into the bilge. The correct procedure: after fueling, open
your hatches, use your nose to sniff for gas vapor, then turn the blower on for
four minutes before starting your engine. Be patient!