Battery and Gas Tank Location

[Saildog35]

Hi, New to SailNet and I could use some advice. Just bought a Helms 24 which like many old smaller cruising boats is setup with an outboard and a red portable 6 gallon gas tank strapped down in a locker under the starboard cockpit seat. The fact that those red tanks are advertised as not meant to be used below deck is one issue but more troubling is the fact that the battery is strapped down within 1 foot of the tank in the same locker. Though the boat is almost 30 years old and hasn't blown up yet, I can't but think that any spark from undoing any of the multiple leads to the battery (it's an old setup) might encounter fumes from the tank. The area under the cockpit, including port and starboard lockers is open so just moving the tank to the port locker wouldn't seem to really address the gas fume and battery issue. Or would the increased distance, from 1 foot to say 5' make a difference. Or should I just learn to live with placing the gas tank above deck in the cockpit where it will be in the way and an eyesore, but will be safe? I'd appreciate any comments.

[tommays]

You need a vented below deck tank OR keep the RED one on deck when in use

I have found it best to have a strap on deck to hold down the tank should things get a bit rough

[Saildog35]

Thanks Tommays

I am moving the tank to the cockpit with a strap. And I'm building a shelf from the inside of the transom to cover the tank. Thanks for your comment. It helped move me to action.

Saildog35