Gas engines, fans and kerosene lamps

[SURV69]

I know to run my blower fan for 5 minutes or so before starting my Atomic 4 engine.

But why doesn't anyone ever seem to address the danger of a kerosene lamp in a boat with a gas engine?

Personally, I'd want a small fan running almost 24/7 to keep gas fumes out of the boat.

[robert sailor]

Someone giving you a hard time because you still have an Atomic bomb for an engine? I used those engines for years, even took one offshore. They are about as bullet proof a little gas engine as you'll find plus they are easy to work on. There was a day when they were the prefered engine for a smaller sailboat but you don't see many around anymore. They are plenty safe if all normal precautions are taken. Buttery smooth running little guy for sure.

[Cheechako]

It's a good point, any gas fumes and any flame could be an issue.

[Astrid]

Your engine compartment and probably your fuel tank as well, should be isolated from the living spaces on your boat and have their own ventilation system (air intake and air exhaust) separate from that for the cabin, salon, and berths. That should eliminate the build of petrol fumes as well as any carbon monoxide from any engine exhaust leakage.