Question 40 LB01 - Lifeboat Operator

The Correct Answer is C **Why Option C is Correct:** Fueling a vessel, especially with gasoline, introduces hazardous, heavier-than-air fuel vapors. These vapors can settle in the lowest parts of the boat, such as the bilge and engine compartment. If these vapors are not removed, they can be ignited by a spark (such as from starting the engine or turning on electrical equipment), leading to an explosion. Therefore, the critical safety action once fueling is complete is to thoroughly **open all hatches and compartments and ventilate the boat** (often using the boat's blower system for several minutes) to disperse and remove any accumulated fumes before starting the engine or using electrical systems. **Why the Other Options are Incorrect:** * **A) The fuel tank fill pipe should be left open to allow vapors to vent from the tank:** The fill pipe must be securely closed immediately after fueling to prevent water intrusion and, more importantly, to contain the fuel and its vapors, which are explosive. The tank is designed with a separate vent line to manage internal pressure. Leaving the fill pipe open is dangerous. * **B) Open the fuel line and drain a small amount of gasoline into the bilge to clear the line of sediment:** Intentionally draining flammable liquid into the bilge is an extremely dangerous and prohibited action. It immediately creates an explosive atmosphere in the lowest part of the boat. Any sediment issues should be addressed by filtering or cleaning the fuel system, not by dumping fuel into the hull. * **D) The engine should be started immediately to prevent vapor lock in the fuel line:** The engine should **not** be started immediately. Starting the engine generates an electrical spark (from the starter and ignition system) and heat, which is the exact ignition source that must be avoided until all compartments have been checked for vapors, usually confirmed by several minutes of mechanical ventilation (using the blower) and often a sniff test. Vapor lock is typically a problem associated with hot engines and is not a justification to bypass critical post-fueling ventilation procedures.