Safety while troubleshooting

[waterone1@aol.com]

I've posted this in a few different areas, but felt it belonged here as well. We all talk about our boat problems and repair issues on this board. I just wanted to "drive home" what can happen when a electrical problem turns deadly. <br />Two Nights ago, in my pool on the Ohio river, four boaters were killed when their boat lost all electrical power and the boat was hit by a barge. Everyone was down below, trying to fix the problem, when the unlit boat was hit by a barge. All but one onboard were killed. If you have problems with your boat, please be extra cautious while trying to solve it ! electrical problems onboard can turn deadly very fast.

 

[swist]

Re: Safety while troubleshooting

I feel for the people who were lost and their families, but how is this an "electrical problem"? Sounds like a lack of basic seamanship - if the lights are lost, someone should stay up top to keep a watch and/or the boat should be moved out of the shipping lanes asap.

 

[amirm]

Re: Safety while troubleshooting

Perhaps it is related to this sub-forum in that folks need to be careful when doing electrical work on their boats. They should know what they are doing and IMHO, use absolutely the best components and practices they can as to not find themselves in the same situation as above.<br /><br />And yes, once you do have the problem, then being aware of your environment is job #1.<br /><br />Amir