Safe Fueling of Boats

Fuel and petroleum can cause major problems for wildlife and the marine environment. Federal and State law is very strict concerning the discharge of oil or fuel into the water. The penalties and cleanup costs can be severe.

It is a very good idea to have an idea of how much fuel your boat carries and burns through normal use. This information will help you to anticipate when to stop filling.

Consider installing an air-fuel separator or whistle on your vessel’s fuel tank vent line. Both devices will help provide a warning when the boat is nearly full. Most fuel docks routinely provide an adsorbent pad to place around the fueling nozzle while it is being used. If the fuel dock doesn’t provide a pad for your use, encourage them to do so and make sure you have your own on hand. Never use soap or detergent on inadvertent fuel spills; they only sink the fuel into the water column were it will have prolonged contact with wildlife. It is much better to let it evaporate.

Portable tanks should be filled at upland facilities or at least out of the boat. Spills are much easier to cleanup onshore and away from the water. It is also safer to fill portable fuel tanks that are placed on the ground. This helps reduce the buildup of static electricity and the chance of causing a spark.

Before Fueling

• Stop all engines and auxiliaries.


• Shut off all electricity, open flames, and heat sources.


• Check bilges for fuel vapors.


• Extinguish all smoking materials.


• Close access fittings and openings that could allow fuel vapors to enter the boat’s enclosed spaces.


• Remove all personnel from the boat except the person handling the fueling hose.

During Fueling

• Maintain nozzle contact with fill pipe.


• Fuel filling nozzle must be attended at all times.


• Wipe up spills immediately.


• Avoid overfilling.


• Marine fuel nozzles may not automatically shut-off like an automotive fuel nozzle does.


• Air trapped in fill lines, blowback and fuel tank sloshing due to boat wakes can cause fuel to be spilled.

After Fueling and Before Starting Engine

• Inspect bilges for leakage or fuel odors.


• Ventilate until odors are removed.

Tags: Safety Boating Fueling