Politics & Government
Sophia's Law: New Carbon Monoxide Rule Will Affect Minnesota Boaters
Sophia's Law is named for seven-year-old Sophia Baechler, who died from carbon monoxide poisoning while boating on Lake Minnetonka.
On a warm day in October 2015, 7-year-old Sophia Baechler went for a boat ride with her family on Lake Minnetonka. Thirty minutes into the trip she complained of a headache and said the motor sounded loud.
Her parents thought she was simply tired or dehydrated and suggested she lay down, which she did in one of the boat’s compartments. But minutes later, after others on the boat began to feel ill, Sophia was found unconscious.
Despite the best efforts of her parents, both physicians, Sophia never woke up. She died from carbon monoxide poisoning. The boat Sophia was on wasn’t equipped with a carbon monoxide detector, according the Minnesota House Public Information Services.
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Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that can be toxic even in very small quantities since its effects are cumulative over time. Whether inside, outside, underway or anchored, passengers of many types of boats with a motor can quickly become victims of CO poisoning. A quick inspection every time you operate your boat can save a life, carbon monoxide poisonings are preventable, state officials say.
A new law, named after Sophia, is now in effect. The law requires certain boats to have a CO detector installed.
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What you need to know: Sophia’s Law requirements
Motorboats, regardless of fuel type, with an enclosed accommodation compartment, now must be equipped with a functioning marine CO detector system installed. Carbon monoxide detectors manufactured prior to 2012 should be replaced, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
All gasoline-powered motorboats with any enclosed occupancy compartment must display three CO poisoning warning stickers as directed by law.
Most boat owners affected by this law will receive the warning stickers and details on the requirements before boating season begins next year. Minnesota is the first state to require CO detectors in motorboats.
Learn more about the law at the MN DNR website.
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