As the dark gray, cold skies of winter slowly give way to the warmer, sunny days of spring, a young mans fancy turns towards
ah! come on now I'm talking about boating. Safe boating, to be more specific. If you are anything like me, all I want to do is get that boat in the water and forget the cold and snow. Did I say forget? Well many of us forget to get our boats in shape before we hit the water. No, I don't mean a wash and wax, I'm talking about the safety items.
Here is a boaters check list of items that should be addressed BEFORE the boat is launched for the new season. I take no credit for the list as it was a part of a booklet produced by the U.S. Dept. of Transportation and the U.S. Coast Guard.
Boaters Check List:
· Personal Flotation Devices (PFD'S)
· Sound Producing Devices, Whistle, Horn or Bell
· Navigation Lights
· Fire Extinguishers
· Visual Distress Signals
· Backfire Flame Arrester
· Fuel Systems, Fuel Filter
· Anchor-and Anchor Line
· Alternate Propulsion, Paddle
· Dewatering Device, Hand Pump, Bucket, Bilge Pump
General Conditions:
· Overall Vessel Condition, Electrical Systems, Galley and Heating
· Numbering and Registration/Documentation
· State Requirements, Some States have their own requirements, make sure to check your own State.
· Marine Sanitation Device
· Pollution Placards, If required to have one posted
· Navigation Rules
· Special Decals, If required
Additional items that you may want to carry:
· VHF Radio
· FCC Marine Radio License (May not be required any longer)
· Spare Anchor
· Fenders
· First Aid Kit
· Flashlight
· Mirror
· Suntan Lotion
· Tool Kit
· Floating Buoy
· Spare fuel
· Chart & compass
· Boat Hook
· Spare Prop
· Binoculars
· Sunglasses
· Mooring & Heaving Lines
I know that this sound like over-kill, but if that day comes when you break down on the water, you will be very glad that you took the time and packed and checked these items. Oh yes, one other item to do before you leave home. Leave a float plan with a reliable person who will call for help, if you do not return on schedule.
Have a Safe and Happy Boating Season!
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My life is good . . .
Fishing helps make it that way
Max
Waterford MI
