Skip to main content

Prepare for boating season by installing marine carbon monoxide detectors Properly working detectors can save lives

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 24, 2018

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112

LANSING, Mich. – As boating season launches, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and Consumers Energy are reminding residents to take action to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

“Many people don’t realize they can be poisoned from carbon monoxide while spending time on a boat,” said Dr. Eden Wells, MDHHS chief medical executive. “Installing marine carbon monoxide detectors on boats can save lives.”

In the right conditions, exhaust from a boat’s engine and generator can vent into the cabin, cockpit and bridge, poisoning those aboard. This is especially a danger when boats are idling or traveling at slow speeds. 

To protect yourself and your family from carbon monoxide, follow these safety tips:

  • Make sure you have a working marine carbon monoxide detector. Home detectors aren’t designed to work in a marine environment, so be sure to find a detector that is specifically for marine use. They can be purchased from boating supply stores for $60 to $150. Like home detectors, marine detectors should be replaced every five years or according to manufacturer instructions.   
  • Ensure all fuel-burning engines and appliances are properly installed and maintained. The U.S. Coast Guard has a helpful checklist for inspecting your boat for exhaust-related problems.
  • Swim and play away from areas where engines vent their exhaust.
  • Never block exhaust outlets. Blocked outlets can cause carbon monoxide to build up in cabin and cockpit areas.
  • Limit the time your boat idles or runs at slow speeds.
  • Dock, beach or anchor your boat at least 20 feet away from the nearest boat.Exhaust from nearby boats can build up near your boat’s cabin and cockpit.
  • Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and take action if you see them. Carbon monoxide can’t be seen or smelled, and at high levels it can cause death within minutes. Symptoms include headache, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea and confusion. Symptoms often mimic seasickness or alcohol intoxication. If you think you may be experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, or your detector sounds an alarm, move to fresh air and call 911.

“There are other everyday household items like portable generators and cooking appliances that burn fuel which can also be possible sources of carbon monoxide,” said Chelsea Dodge, Consumers Energy public safety program coordinator. “It’s important to know the symptoms so you can get to safety quickly and get help by calling 911.”

Visit the MDHHS carbon monoxide website or CDC’s CO/Boating website for more information about boating and carbon monoxide poisoning. For information on portable generator safety, read the Michigan Agency for Energy’s consumer tips sheet.


# # #