This week FSC Safe Marina 2026 is focusing on fuel safety. Fuel leaks and vapours can turn a routine engine start into an emergency. Petrol vapour is especially hazardous because it can collect in low spaces and ignite from electrical switching, motors, sparks or open flame. Diesel and oil leaks can also feed a machinery-space fire.

Before starting and during routine maintenance:

• Open and inspect the machinery space for leaks, staining, loose clamps, deteriorated hoses and leaking filters.
• If you smell fuel, do not turn the key. Investigate the source before operating switches or starting engines.
• Operate ventilation or bilge blowers in accordance with the vessel manufacturer’s instructions and keep ventilation openings clear.
• Keep bilges clean enough that a new fuel or oil leak can be identified quickly.
• Secure portable fuel containers in an approved, ventilated location and keep caps closed.
• Do not store rags, cardboard, aerosols, spare fuel or other combustibles beside hot engines, exhausts, chargers or electrical equipment.

During pen checks, the Harbour team will be looking for these same issues, including visible fuel or oil in bilges or on the water, strong fuel odours, unsafe portable fuel storage, combustibles in machinery areas, blocked ventilation openings, and signs of deteriorated hoses or leaking filters.

If you discover a significant leak, keep ignition sources off, warn others and notify the Harbour Office. Call 000 if there is an immediate danger. Do not wash or discharge fuel into the marina.

Member Action for the Week:

Before your next trip, complete a cold-engine inspection of your fuel hoses, clamps, filters, bilges and ventilation. If you find a leak, deterioration or strong fuel odour, investigate and rectify it before starting the engine.

Protect your boat. Protect your neighbour. Protect your Club.

For any questions or feedback about FSC Safe Marina 2026, please contact the Harbour Office at harbourreception@fsc.com.au.