Sound very similar to mine, but mine (I think) are slightly smaller cord. Hopefully get the measurements soon.

Yes in an emergency I suppose you could even use them as dishes. … <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

I would suggest the reason styrofoam is banned is because of its flamability and toxic smoke production.
With an engine and flamable liquid the percentage risk from fire as opposed to sinking is increased.

From a rough glance at the news it would appear in WA the number of fires on powered boats equals the number sinking, groundings swampings combined. (please note this is a personal observation and not a statistic)

It's interesting to see that petrol inboard engines are essentially banned on commercial vessels with the new rules coming into effect soon, no doubt because of the risk of fire and explosion.

If you want statistics...
Australian Boating Incidents 2005

Particular attention should be paid to capsizes and falling overboard...they accounted for 50% of fatalities.

Particular attention should also be paid to recreational boat use..they accounted for 79% of fatalities.