V1 was cruising through canals in Ft. Lauderdale. Owner fueled vessel prior to voyage with approx. 5 gallons of gasoline from a portable gas tank.  Owner and occupant returned to dock approximately 1 and 1 half hour after leaving on voyage. After V1 was docked, occupant stepped off V1.  Owner walked to rear of V1 and lifted bilge cover. Owner then placed an alligator clip on the battery terminal to activate the bilge pump.  A flash of flames occurred and caught the shirt of the Owner on fire. Then, an explosion occurred.  Owner was blow into the water by explosion. Owner was retrieved from the water and transferred to Broward Memorial Hospital. Upon Arrival, Medical personnel at Broward Memorial  decided to transport via helicopter owner to Jackson Memorial Burn Center for treatment. Occupant/Witness was not injured.; victim received second degree burns to his upper torso, neck and head.
FT. LAUDERDALE                