THE BOAT'S OWNER LAUNCHED THE VESSEL AND TIED IT TO THE DOCK AT THE BOAT RAMP. THE OWNER/OPERATOR STARTED THE ENGINE THAT THEIR MECHANIC (ALSO A PASSENGER) HAD JUST INSTALLED A NEW CARBURETOR.  THE MECHANIC WAS ATTEMPTING TO CONNECT THE STEERING LINKAGE WHEN THE BOAT BURST INTO FLAMES. THE OWNER'S SON WHO WAS ON BOARD WAS BURNED FROM THE FLASH FIRE.
HOPEWELL