Electric Safety While Boating
Updated: 2 days ago
Water and electricity don't mix. If you own a boat, follow these 6 safety tips.
Unknowingly, many swimmers and boat operators place themselves in the face of danger by swimming near electric-powered boats and docks. This innocent act of fun can turn tragic as electric shock drowning occurs each year. Help prevent electric shock drowning or other electrical injuries with these tips from ESFI.
Don’t allow anyone to swim near docks or boats.
If you feel a tingle while swimming, the water may be electrified. Get out of the water as soon as possible avoiding the use of metal objects such as ladders.
When your boat is docked, never use cords that are frayed or damaged or that have had the prongs removed or altered.
Have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) installed on your boat. Test them once a month.
Consider having equipment leakage circuit interrupters (ELCI) installed on your boat to protect nearby swimmers from potential electricity leakage into water surrounding your boat.
Have your boat’s electrical system inspected and upgraded by a certified marine electrician regularly.