What actions should you take if you notice excessive fumes in the bilge?

Turning on the blower is the appropriate action to take if you notice excessive fumes in the bilge. The blower’s primary function is to circulate air and help ventilate the bilge area, which can reduce the concentration of harmful fumes or potentially explosive gases. By activating the blower, you provide a means to displace the accumulated fumes with fresh air, thereby lowering the risk of ignition and improving safety on board.

It's important to remember that excessive fumes in the bilge could indicate a dangerous situation, such as fuel leaks or other hazardous materials. Utilizing the blower to ventilate the area is a proactive step toward ensuring a safe environment.

While other actions such as opening hatches for ventilation can also be beneficial, they should not be the first line of defense since they may not effectively circulate air in enclosed spaces like a bilge. Increasing engine speed can exacerbate the situation by increasing the production of fumes, and activating the fire suppression system should only be done if a fire is detected or imminent, not simply in response to fumes.