Preparing your boat for the summer and following proper safety guidelines are essential for a smooth and safe boating season. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to having a fun, relaxing, enjoyable summer with the ones you love!
Prepare Your Boat for Summer
- Inspect the Hull and Propeller:
- Look for cracks, blisters, or damage.
- Check the propeller for dings or distortion and ensure it’s securely attached.
- Clean and Paint:
- Clean the hull thoroughly.
- Apply antifouling paint if you’ll be in saltwater or leaving it in the water long-term.
- Check the Engine:
- Change the oil and replace filters.
- Check and replace the fuel, air, and oil filters if needed.
- Inspect belts, cables, and hoses for wear.
- Fuel System:
- Inspect for leaks or brittle fuel lines.
- Fill the tank with fresh fuel and add a stabilizer.
- Battery Check:
- Fully charge the battery and clean terminals.
- Test the voltage and replace it if it won’t hold a charge.
- Cooling System:
- Flush and refill with fresh coolant if applicable.
- Check water pumps and impellers.
- Safety Gear Inventory:
- Ensure you have enough life jackets and they’re in good condition.
- Test fire extinguishers and replace if expired.
- Check flares and signaling devices for expiration.
- Electronics and Lights:
- Test navigation and interior lights.
- Ensure GPS, depth finder, radio, and other electronics work properly.
- Inspect the Trailer:
- Check tires, bearings, brakes, and lights.
- Make sure the winch and straps are functioning.
Boat Safety Tips
- Wear Life Jackets:
- Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket—especially kids and non-swimmers.
- Check the Weather:
- Avoid going out in rough or unpredictable weather.
- Tell Someone Your Plan:
- Share your float plan (where you’re going and when you’ll be back) with a friend or marina.
- Avoid Alcohol:
- Don’t drive the boat under the influence—boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal and dangerous.
- Know Navigation Rules:
- Understand right-of-way, channel markers, and local boating laws.
- Emergency Equipment:
- Carry a first aid kit, whistle, mirror, flashlight, and basic tools.
- Fire Safety:
- Keep fire extinguishers readily accessible and regularly inspected.
- Carbon Monoxide Awareness:
- Don’t idle in enclosed spaces; install CO detectors if possible.
- Anchoring Practice:
- Know how to properly set and retrieve an anchor.
- Take a Boating Safety Course:
- Many are offered online or locally and may even reduce insurance rates.