MasterCraft Aviara AV32, Owner'S Manual

Page: 15 / 285

AVIARA OWNERS MANUAL / 16
Carbon Monoxide
(CO)
When anchoring the boat, you MUST turn OFF the engine.
In most models, exhaust fumes containing carbon monoxide
are emitted from the exhaust on the engine drives. No one
should ever be on the swim platform or transom while the
engine is operating.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless, odorless and poisonous
gas that accumulates rapidly and can cause serious injury or death.
Exposure to carbon monoxide can be fatal in a matter of minutes.
Exposure to even low concentrations of carbon monoxide must
not be ignored because the effects of long term carbon monoxide
exposure can build up and be just as lethal as high concentrations.
Carbon monoxide from exhaust pipes of inboard, stern drive or
outboard engines may build up inside and outside the boat in areas
near exhaust vents, particularly during slow-speed operations.
STAY AWAY from these exhaust vent areas, which are located at
the stern of the boat, and DO NOT swim or engage in any water
sports or other activities in or near the stern area of the boat,
including, without limitation, the swim platform, the rear sun
deck, aft barstools, and aft facing lounge seats when the engine
is in operation. Under no circumstances should the owner and/
or operator allow persons to hold onto the swim platform while
the engine is operating and the boat is in motion. These activities
(sometimes known as “platform surfing” or “platform dragging,”
where the participant holds onto the swim platform and is pulled
through the water, and/or “body surfs” immediately behind the
boat) are extremely dangerous, highly likely to result in death or
serious bodily injury, and are a misuse of this product.
Carbon monoxide (CO) enters your bloodstream through
the lungs, blocking the oxygen your body needs. Prolonged
exposure to low concentrations or very quick exposure to high
concentrations can be deadly to all on board.
Early symptoms of CO poisoning include irritated eyes,
headache, nausea, weakness and dizziness. These can be
confused with seasickness or intoxication. Altitude, certain
health-related problems, and age will increase the effects of
CO. Persons who smoke or are exposed to high concentrations
of cigarette smoke, consume alcohol, or have lung disorders
or heart problems are particularly susceptible to an increase in
the effects of CO. However, anyone can be affected. Another
factor to consider is that physical exertion accelerates the rate
at which the blood absorbs CO.