RedactedNarrative: Operator of the vessel was going to take his son for a boat ride on Clinton Lake. The motor of the vessel stopped running. Operator had removed the flame arrestor to attempt to get the boat started. At this time approximately 10mins had past. The motor cover was shut and while attempting to start the motor it back fired causing surrounding gas fumes to ignite. Both parties abandoned the boat. Operator was able to get the cover closed and reboard the vessel. He used his fire extinguisher to put the fire out. The Fire was put out and vessel was towed to shore. Neither party was injured. 
  
  A safety inspection revealed Operator did not have a Type IV Throwable PFD, The vessel was not registered and he had removed the flame arrestor prior to the fire/explosion.
  
  After initial report was filed officer was made aware that the report did not contain all the facts of the incident. Officer was advised that Operator was involved in a child custody dispute with his child’s mother. Officer was advised that Operator had his son pour gasoline directly into the carburetor of the engine. The result of this action caused the engine to backfire. Since the flame arrestor had been removed the back fire resulted in fire. Son also sustained very minor burns but was evaluated by ems away from the scene and no further treatment was done.
   