Sail boats on Canyon Lake.
Credit: Eclectic Muse | ©self
Boating can be an enjoyable experience for everyone as long as you follow a few simple steps and ask yourself a few questions. Preparation is the key. Are you ready for a fun filled day on the water?
Have you ever arrived at the boat ramp, prepared to launch your boat, and found that you left your boat key hanging on the key rack at home? Did you bring enough personal floatation devices? Do you have what you need in case of an emergency? Have you ever put the boat in the water only to find you forgot to insert your plug?
Developing a boating checklist will help keep you prepared. Laminate it and keep it on your boat for reference during preparation. Avoid omissions or mishaps and expect the unexpected.
Here are some questions to ask yourself while you develop your boating checklist:
Pre-season preparation:
Walk the floor and deck of your boat; are there any soft spots?
Is the hull in good shape?
Are the batteries in good shape and will they hold a charge?
How do the wires look, do any need replacing?
How's the fuel line and bulb?
Is the bilge pump working properly?
Are the drain holes clean and free of debris?
Does the steering turn freely?
Do the boat lights work?
Are the electronics in check?
Does the horn or noise making device function?
Is the fire extinguisher charged and functioning?
Are the boat and trailer registrations up to date?
Check all cleats, tighten any loose screws, and ensure that seating is secure. You should also do a driveway run to check if the water pump is working, how the starting system is working, and if motor needs any maintenance. Check your prop for excessive wear or damage.
Walk around your boat and look for anything out of the ordinary. Check your bow hook, wench, and bumper. Check your trailer to ensure that fenders and bunks are secure. Make repairs as necessary.
Before you leave your driveway:
Have you ever arrived at the boat ramp, prepared to launch your boat, and found that you left your boat key hanging on the key rack at home? Did you bring enough personal floatation devices? Do you have what you need in case of an emergency? Have you ever put the boat in the water only to find you forgot to insert your plug?
Developing a boating checklist will help keep you prepared. Laminate it and keep it on your boat for reference during preparation. Avoid omissions or mishaps and expect the unexpected.
Here are some questions to ask yourself while you develop your boating checklist:
Pre-season preparation:
Walk the floor and deck of your boat; are there any soft spots?
Is the hull in good shape?
Are the batteries in good shape and will they hold a charge?
How do the wires look, do any need replacing?
How's the fuel line and bulb?
Is the bilge pump working properly?
Are the drain holes clean and free of debris?
Does the steering turn freely?
Do the boat lights work?
Are the electronics in check?
Does the horn or noise making device function?
Is the fire extinguisher charged and functioning?
Are the boat and trailer registrations up to date?
Check all cleats, tighten any loose screws, and ensure that seating is secure. You should also do a driveway run to check if the water pump is working, how the starting system is working, and if motor needs any maintenance. Check your prop for excessive wear or damage.
Walk around your boat and look for anything out of the ordinary. Check your bow hook, wench, and bumper. Check your trailer to ensure that fenders and bunks are secure. Make repairs as necessary.
Before you leave your driveway:
- Developing a boating checklist will save you time later.
- Consider everything you may need for fun and for an emergency.
- What every you do, don't forget the plug!
Comments
Helpful info for boating!
great resource of information. I'll have to come back to this come summer!
This is good info. Now who wants to give me a boat?
Good comprehensive list.
Another great boating article!
nice article
Comments 1 - 6 (of 6)
|
|