Carver 396 Motor Yacht 2003, Owner'S Manual

Page: 32 / 234

20
B
OATING
S
AFETY
3808 6/02
S
ECTION
1
• Be aware that exterior enclosures can create air
flows that draw in and trap CO in the enclosed
areas. Provide adequate ventilation to these areas.
• Do not occupy aft lounging areas, including the
boarding platform, or swim near the engine exhaust
outlets while the engines or generator are running.
• Because CO production is greater when the engines
are cold, minimize the time spent getting underway.
• Avoid backdrafting. Backdrafting occurs when air
moving past the boat creates a low pressure or
suction area near the stern. This low pressure area
can draw CO into the boat’s cabin and enclosed
exterior areas.
Under certain speed and operating conditions, the
low pressure area may form in other areas of the
boat and permit CO to enter through openings that
are not near the stern.
To avoid backdrafting:
- Maintain the proper trim angle; avoid a high bow
angle.
- Distribute the boat’s load evenly.
- Do not operate the boat at slow speeds, especially
with a following wind.
- Provide adequate ventilation; make sure the air
flow is moving from forward to aft inside the
cabin and enclosed exterior areas.
• Have a trained marine technician inspect the boat’s
exhaust systems whenever the boat is in for service
or if you notice a change in the sound of an engine
or the generator.
• Maintain the propulsion and generator engines to
optimize their efficiency; this in turn reduces CO
emissions.
For additional information on carbon monoxide as it
relates to boating, please contact marine organizations
that produce safety publications.