We have discussed in the previous section all of the required equipment for a safe outing. In addition to the minimum requirements, common sense tells us that we should check everything about our boat before leaving the dock to prevent an unpleasant situation.
PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST |
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Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) |
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At least one Coast Guard approved device per passenger and a minimum of two on board. | |
An additional throwable device is required if the vessel is more than 16 feet long. | |
Explain the location and use of all PFDs to passengers and crew that may be new to the vessel. | |
Sound Producing Devices (Whistle) |
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Must have a horn capable of producing a four-second blast audible for at least 1/2 mile. | |
If a portable air horn, have a spare can of air or an alternate device. | |
Lights and Shapes |
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All navigation lights as required. | |
Instrumental lights working. | |
If you intend to engage in an activity that requires a day shape, have the required shapes. | |
Flashlight on-board. | |
Distress Signals |
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Accessible flares, day signals, etc., stored in a dry location. | |
Carry signals at all times even if not required by the Coast Guard. | |
Inform the crew and passengers of their location and their use. | |
Tools and Spares |
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Basic tool box on-board. | |
Box of spares aboard, e.g., fuel filter, light bulbs, head parts, through hull plugs, etc. | |
Ventilation |
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On any powered vessel or auxiliary powered sailboat, or vessels using LPG for cooking or heat, check that all interior spaces are well ventilated before departure. | |
If fuel smells are detected before ventilating, check after running the blowers for several minutes before starting. | |
If odor persists, stop and look for the source of the leak. | |
Fire Extinguishers |
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Accessible fire extinguisher. Do you have at least those required by the U.S.C.G.? | |
Check to be sure mounts are secure and functional before departure. | |
Take the time to point out locations to passengers and crew. | |
Fuel and Oil |
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Are your tanks topped-off? | |
If not, have enough fuel to provide a reasonable margin of safety for your return. | |
Check the engine oil and coolant level. | |
Bilges |
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Check to be sure bilges are reasonably dry and that pumps are not running excessively. | |
Clean up any spilled oil or waste in bilges so as to prevent overboard discharge. | |
Battery Care |
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If you have a dual charging system, is the selector switch in the proper position? | |
Is the power on to the entire vessel? | |
Spare batteries for accessories such as a handheld radio, flashlight, portable navigational aid, etc. | |
If they are rechargeable, are they charged? | |
Weather Forecast |
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Did you check the weather forecast? | |
Radio on board to receive weather updates. | |
Docking and Anchoring |
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At least one anchor set up and bent-on to your anchor line. | |
Two or three extra docklines in case of unusual conditions dockside. | |
Visually inspect the lines you use for chafe or wear. | |
At least two fenders on-board for docking or towing if required. | |
Documentation |
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Have the ship's papers, radio license, fishing permit, etc. on board. | |
Have the chart or charts for the area you intend to cruise in, regardless of your level of local knowledge. |
Before departure, the boat operator should review the following emergency equipment with everyone on board