NFPA Issues Reminder About Electric Shock Hazards

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is reminding people about the potential electrical hazards on-board boats and in the waters surrounding boats, marinas and launch ramps.

Electric shock drowning (ESD) happens when faulty wiring sends an electrical current into the water. The current then passes through the body and causes paralysis. When this happens, a person can no longer swim and ultimately drowns.

Tips for boat owners to avoid electric shock include:

• Avoid entering the water when launching or loading a boat. Docks or boats can leak electricity into the water causing water electrification.
• Each year, and after a major storm, have the boat’s electrical system inspected and upgraded by a qualified marine electrician to be sure it meets the required codes of your area, including the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC).
• Check with the marina owner who can also tell you if the marina’s electrical system has recently been inspected to meet the required codes of your area, including the National Electrical Code® (NEC).
• Have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) installed on the boat; use only portable GFCIs or shore power cords (including “Y” adapters) that are “UL-Marine Listed” when using electricity near water. Test GFCIs monthly.

NFPA has additional resources for swimmers, boat and pool owners, including tip sheets, checklists and more that can be downloaded and shared. Please visit www.nfpa.org/watersafety.