Medics warn boat lovers about boat blasts Jonce Palmer was badly burned after he turned the engine to start his boat and it exploded. Picture: Milligan Stuart Source: Herald Sun A LEADING trauma hospital has treated more burns related to boat accidents in the past three months than in the previous three years. The Alfred hospital and the Metropolitan Fire Brigade are urging regular servicing of boats. Between 2009 and 2012 The Alfred had 10 boat-related burn patients. This year, eight patients have already required treatment. Nurse Hana Menezes said: "Most of the patients ... have deep enough burns that they require skin grafts, which means they then require up to two years of outpatient care." One of this year's eight patients was Shepparton painter Jonse Palmer. He and twin Tarone, 31, were going waterskiing and fishing on the Murray last month. He had just turned the key in the ignition of the $40,000 family boat when it exploded into flames. Jonce Palmer, pictured with his brother Tarone, was badly burned after he turned the engine to start his boat and it exploded. Picture: Milligan Stuart He scrambled into the river, skin peeling off his legs, superficial burns on his back and face. His legs didn't hurt because he'd burnt through nerves; he required a skin graft from his right thigh to his left leg. Mr Palmer is at home recovering, but requires continuing care. "I'm lucky to be alive," he said. The MFB marine training department's Acting Senior Station Officer, Mick Campbell, said boat users should ensure a fire extinguisher, flares and lifejackets are aboard, take care to store their fuel properly, ensure fuel lines are not leaking and the electrics are in good order. Those with inboard motors need to have fitted a mechanism that lowers the risk of vapours building up in the boat.