The Maryland Boating Partnership for Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety is a public safety initiative developed through a collaboration between the Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Maryland Natural Resources Police. This partnership is dedicated to improving safety on Maryland’s waterways by addressing the dangers of carbon monoxide exposure on recreational vessels.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and potentially deadly gas that can accumulate quickly in and around boats, particularly when engines or generators are running. Each year, preventable incidents occur when boaters and passengers are unknowingly exposed to dangerous levels of CO. Through education, prevention, and partnerships with marina operators and the boating community, this program aims to significantly reduce these risks across the state.
A central component of this initiative is the distribution and installation of carbon monoxide alarms on recreational vessels throughout Maryland. Working with marina partners statewide, the program seeks to equip approximately 2,000 vessels with carbon monoxide alarms, helping ensure boaters have an early warning system should CO levels become dangerous.
The Maryland Boating Partnership for CO Safety supports and advances the requirements established under Matthew’s Law, which requires certain recreational vessels to be equipped with carbon monoxide safety warning labels. By helping boat owners understand and comply with this law, the program improves safety while promoting responsible boating practices.
Beyond alarm distribution, the partnership focuses on several key goals:
Increasing awareness of carbon monoxide hazards on recreational vessels
Preventing carbon monoxide incidents and fatalities on Maryland waterways
Supporting compliance with Matthew’s Law through outreach and warning label deployment
Strengthening Community Risk Reduction partnerships among public safety agencies, marinas, and the boating community
Expanding public access to CO safety education and resources
Through coordinated outreach, public education campaigns, and collaboration with marina operators and boating organizations, the Maryland Boating Partnership for CO Safety works to ensure that Maryland’s waterways remain safe for residents and visitors alike.
By combining prevention, education, and enforcement, this partnership represents a proactive commitment to protecting lives and raising awareness about the hidden dangers of carbon monoxide on the water.
