Volvo Penta KAD/KAMD44P Operator's Manual page 7

Carbon monoxide poisoning
When a boat is moving forward, it will cause a certain
vacuum to form behind the boat. In unfortunate cir-
cumstances, the suction from this vacuum can be so
great that the exhaust gases from the boat are drawn
into the cockpit or cabin and cause carbon monoxide
poisoning.
This problem is most prevalent on high, wide boats
with abrupt stern. In certain conditions, however, this
suction can be a problem on other boats, e.g. when
running with the cover up. Other factors that can in-
crease the effect of the suction are wind conditions,
load distribution, swells, trim, open hatches and port-
holes, etc.
Checklist
● Safety equipment Life jackets for all passengers, communication equipment, emergency rockets,
approved fire extinguisher, first-aid equipment, life belt, anchor, paddle, torch etc.
●
Replacement parts and tools: impeller, fuel filters, fuses, tape, hose clamps, engine oil, propeller
and tools for any repairs that might have to be carried out.
● Get out your charts and go over the planned route. Calculate distance and fuel consumption. Lis-
ten to the weather reports
●
Make sure that relations or contact persons are informed when planning a longer voyage. Remem-
ber to inform them if your plans have changed or been delayed.
●
Tell your passengers and crew where the safety equipment is stored and how to operate it. Make
sure you are not the only person on board who knows how to start the boat and operate it safely.
This list can be added to because safety equipment and other requirements vary depending on the
type of boat and how it is used. We recommend that you contact your local boating organization for
more detailed information on safety afloat.
Most modern boats, however, are designed in such a
way that this problem is very rare. If suction should
arise anyway, do not open hatches or portholes at the
fore of the boat. Surprisingly, this will otherwise in-
crease the suction. Try changing speed, trim or load
distribution instead. Try taking down/opening or in any
other way changing the setup of the cover as well.
Get in touch with your boat dealer for help in obtaining
the best solution for your boat.
Safety Information
5