Fueling Tips

Spilling fuel is not only bad for the environment, it can be dangerous too. To help make fueling a positive experience, the BoatU.S. Foundation has put together the following Safe and Clean Fueling Tips.

Safe and Clean Fueling Tips

Before Fueling:

• Put out all smoking materials and secure your boat to the dock.
• Know how much fuel your boat holds and how much you need.
• Turn off engine(s), electronics, and extinguish all open flames.
• Send passengers ashore and close hatches, ports, and doors.
• Remove portable tank(s) from boat and fill on the dock.

During Fueling:

• Assure that you have selected the type of fuel you need.
• Be certain that fuel is going into the proper fill entry.
• Use an absorbent pad or donut around deck fill to catch spills.
• Catch spills from the fuel vent with a device like a “No Spill.”
• Maintain contact between nozzle and deck fill to prevent sparking.
• Hold the nozzle when refueling – don’t use a hands-free clip.
• Fuel slowly, and listen for a change in tone as the tank gets full.
• Don’t rely on the automatic shut-off device – marina fuel pumps fuel at a faster rate than land-based pumps - they often don’t shut off in time.
• Resist topping off – As the temperature rises, fuel expands. Fill tanks to 90% capacity to leave room for expansion.
• Avoid turning on switch for fuel gauge (or any switch) while refueling. Turning on any electronics while fueling is dangerous and can increase the risk of sparking.

After Fueling:

• Wipe up all spills and drips on deck from the overboard fuel vent. Dispose of pads properly.
• Do not use detergents to disperse a sheen or spill on the water – it’s illegal.
• Open ports, hatches and doors to ventilate.
• Before starting engine, operate blower for 3-5 minutes.
• Sniff bilges and engine compartment for fumes.
• Go Boating and Have a Great Day!

Treat your fueling operations with care. Limit exposure to fumes and avoid skin contact. Always watch and listen for cues that your tank is nearing capacity and stop before any fuel can escape. And don’t forget, spilled fuel can ruin gelcoat, paint, striping, trim and upholstery. Wipe up spills immediately – it just makes good, clean sense.

Safety Reminder: Gasoline vapors are heavier than air and can spread rapidly into enclosed spaces. Gasoline vapors can burn or explode if sparked. Proper fueling procedures are extremely important in preventing onboard fires.

If you would like to share a safe or clean fueling tip not listed, email us here. For a condensed pocket-version of the tips below, click here to download the Basics Of Fueling Brochure.