Stove Alcohol Spill

[Mike Scholz]

I had a brand new gallow of stove alcohol break open and spill in my boat in a perfectly safe place. It went into the bilge which was dry at the time and I noticed that everywhere that I have an opening (under seats, sinks, vbirth etc) I was getting vapor smell. After removing everything it came in contact with I opened everything up and left.I called the mfg of the product and did not get any reponce other that it will go away.Is this true? Are there any other things I can do to clean this up? Will it damage the fiberglass at all?Any advise is needed as I sleep on this boat and do not want any problems.Thanks

 

[David Foster]

Alcohol will disappear

Yes, it is flammable. Otherwise, though, it's a lot like water. The difference is that it will evaporate much quicker than water.It bet that the alcohol and any alcohol fumes will be gone when you return to your boat. That has been the results with any spills (none so large yet, though) on Lady Lillie.The only residual odor could come from additives used for one reason or another. But we have never noticed any from the common brands. If there were a remaining odor, washing with soap and water would take care of it.DavidLAdy Lilly

 

[Hayden Watson]

make it non-flammable

If you ever have another spill, you should make it non-flammable. You said that your bilge had been “bone dry” so the fuel was full strength. If you dilute the alcohol to 50% with water, it will no longer be a fire risk.

 

[Peggie Hall/HeadMistress]

Only one cure: cleanup with detergent and water

Be sure to rinse completely, then leave all hatches open till any remaining fumes have evaporated. The alternative is a lingering odor for anywhere from months to years.