On Sunday Lakeview Marina on Lake Dallas, TX had a boat fire which reportedly according to the youtube video says was a Commander. From what I can see in the video it would be in the 42-47 range IF it's a Commander. Thankfully it's reported that no injuries and only one other boat were involved. Hopefully it was not one of our memebrs but I suspect if it's a Commander it is. Prayers up. The investigation is ongoing to the cause, but it burned to the waterline so doubtful of the results if any. Every year we see this around the country when cold weather shows its' ugly head. Here are some tips and advice for those that want it: 1) If you are using an engine room heater it must be USCG approved (Not just UL certified) and NOT attached to a drop cord but plugged directly into an outlet. 2) Space Heaters should never be used when away, and if used above decks in cabin areas AGAIN never plugged into a drop cord but directly into an outlet. 3) As the people in Texas found out a couple years ago? When a hard freeze is to come, Sea Valves to engines, Gen, and Heads should be turned OFF... The number one cause for the number of sinkings they had were due to the strainers busting glasses which allowed unlimited water inbound. The video of this fire is all over the 'net and Youtube. Please be safe and use common sense. Draining engines is always better than running heaters. ALWAYS... Hope this helps someone.
Lee