Silent, Odourless, and Deadly: The Hidden Danger Boaters Need to Know About

When we think of boating hazards, we picture high waves, equipment failure, or maybe a lost paddle. But there’s a much deadlier threat lurking aboard — and you can’t see it, smell it, or hear it coming.

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a real and growing threat for boaters in Canada and around the world. And it doesn’t just strike below deck — it can happen while relaxing on the swim platform, while tied up at the dock, or even while idling on open water.

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odourless gas that is produced anytime fuel burns — including the engines and generators powering your boat. Without proper ventilation or awareness, carbon monoxide can build up to lethal levels in minutes.

A recent Global News article reported a cautionary reminder of this risk after two boaters were nearly killed by carbon monoxide poisoning on their vessel. Despite years of public awareness campaigns and updated safety recommendations, incidents like these continue to occur — and they are almost entirely preventable.

📰 Read the full article here:
👉 https://globalnews.ca/news/10631756/boating-carbon-monoxide-poisoning/

• Idling engines can create CO clouds that gather near the back of the boat (especially under swim decks)

• Poor ventilation in sleeping quarters or enclosed cabins traps the gas inside

• Generator exhaust can drift back onto the boat or adjacent ones, especially when docked

• Even open-air boats can have dangerous CO accumulation due to air flow patterns

One of the most dangerous aspects of carbon monoxide poisoning is how easily it can be mistaken for seasickness, heat exhaustion, or simple fatigue. That’s what makes it so deadly.

Watch for:

• Headache

• Dizziness or confusion

• Nausea or vomiting

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

• Loss of consciousness

⚠️ If multiple people onboard feel unwell at the same time — get to fresh air immediately.

• Install a marine-grade CO detector in all enclosed areas and test it before every trip

• Never block exhaust outlets and check that they’re clear of debris

• Avoid idling your engine or generator for long periods, especially near docks or other boats

• Educate your passengers on the symptoms and dangers of CO poisoning

• Keep people away from swim platforms or rear-facing areas when the engine is running

• Ensure good air circulation — open windows, hatches, and vents when at rest or underway

• Schedule regular maintenance on your engines, generators, and exhaust systems

Boating is about freedom, fun, and family — but it should also be about responsibility.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is 100% preventable with awareness, vigilance, and the right equipment. Whether you captain a cruiser, a pontoon, a jet boat, or a houseboat — you owe it to yourself and your crew to take this threat seriously.

Let’s keep the water safe for everyone this summer.

🛟 Be smart. Stay safe. Spread the word.