I saw the following information on the Powerboat.about.com WEB site.. Also, checking “under the hood” will verify that your bilge pump is actually working… nothing like opening the “hood” to find your starter sitting in water because the float valve in the bilge pump failed..
Powerboat posting”
“Each boating season brings a rash of boat explosions where people are either killed or badly burned. With modern power ventilation, grounding systems and proper safety procedures, these disasters never need to occur.
Fact:
Gasoline fumes are heavier than air. As a result the fumes sink downward to the lowest possible point. This is not a problem in the engine compartment of a car, because the bottom is open to the outside and the fumes can escape. In a boat, however, those same fumes sink into the bilge. They will stay there until removed by the ventilation system or explode when exposed to any kind of spark or flame. I have been told that a ¼ cup of gasoline, mixed with the proper amount of air, has the explosive force of a stick of dynamite.”
WEB site:
http://powerboat.about.com/od/safety..._explosion.htm