On Sun, 15 Feb 2009 00:40:06 +0000, IanM
wrote:

Steve Lusardi wrote:
"IanM" wrote:
Steve Lusardi wrote:
After reading my first comment, it might be considered a bit impolite and
that was not my intention. LPG, CNG or gasoline is really convenient, but
it truly is very dangerous. It is virtually impossible to make any of
them safe if any part of the system is below deck. For that reason, I
carry only Diesel and use only electric below deck. If gasoline must be
used for an outboard, then it must be carried on deck.
Steve

And how many aerosol cans and bottles of volatile solvents do you have
aboard? They are all potential bombs in an enclosed space.

None
Steve
OK, I respect that. After considering the risk/benefit ratio, you've
decided to do the job *right* and eliminate the source of risk totally.

I still reckon my chances of getting blown to bits by gas and volatiles
aboard are small enough that keeping on top of preventative maintenance,
good operating procedures, proper stowage etc. is acceptable risk
management.

I've got a bigger chance of dying messily (or worse - not quite dying)
driving to the boat most weekends. If I was a close friend or relative
of the guy who lost a leg in an onboard gas explosion in Poole a few
years back, I might feel differently but the statistics don't support
the emotional reaction. With a lower background risk level, I might
reconsider.

What do you do if you think you may need a blowtorch while cruising? I
assume you don't carry any paints and varnish etc. for touching up
scrapes when they happen?


If you are describing a "week-ender" you are correct but what about
the live-aboards and long distance cruisers?

By the way, after worrying about all the LPG, gasoline, etc. I know of
a boat that sunk in the harbor at Langkawi, Malaysia because a bottle
of MEK (Thinner it is called over here) broke in bad weather and
dripped down on a water hose and dissolved it. The owner was ashore,
in the hospital, so the boat sank.

Of course there were usual stories about "sinking the boat for
insurance" but I met the owner some years later and the insurance
company had paid off and he was rebuilding the boat in Thailand.

While I certainly agree with you that one should be as safe as
possible but on the other hand messing about on water that is over
your head must considered as inherently unsafe.... just as flying in
airplanes.... or driving cars....or smoking.
Cheers,

Bruce