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The Pacific PowerBoat team recently faced the heartbreaking duty of attending the funeral of a good friend, prominent Southland businessman, Coastguard member and crewman, Rick Murrell.
Rick and a friend were out on another Southland boating adventure (of which we had enjoyed many) when a tragic chain of events unfolded. The placement of a generator near the intake of a diesel heater, combined with a very still night, allowed carbon monoxide (CO) to enter the closed cabin. This led to the untimely loss of Rick’s life. (His companion was in serious condition but, fortunately, survived – something Rick would be very thankful for.)
In New Zealand, the installation of gas detectors is not explicitly mandated by law for recreational vessels. While such regulation would be difficult to enforce, in this instance, a detector would have saved one precious life. Several boat builders and marine companies have already contacted owners with heaters and similar appliances to recommend installing one. Marine-certified CO detectors are available (from $65 to $115), designed to withstand vibration, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.
Rick, a truly selfless “salt of the earth” soul, would have wanted something to be learned from this tragedy. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife, children, grandchildren, family, work colleagues, and many, many friends, both on and off the water.
RIP, Rick.
