Prior to boating, it’s important to check any fluids on the boat, but especially important when boating for the first time in a while.

Most boaters check the fluids themselves and look for the engine oil reservoir, depending on what stroke motor the boat is equipped with, each boat may be a little different. While doing this step make sure to check all the fluid levels, the fuel tank, and the gas lines.

Battery

If a boat was sitting food for several months or more without being used, checking the battery is crucial. No one wants to get stranded because their battery died, or not have their boat start up.

Boats that feature electronics such as GPS, radar systems, and radios can drain the battery, and after using these features ensure to switch them off.

Before boating, inspect the battery itself and make sure there are no issues such as rust or corrosion, if they are present an easy way to fix that is to get a wire brush to clean and get a good connection to the battery.

Keep track of the last time the battery was replaced, batteries should be replaced around every 3-4 years.

Trailers

If you’re a boat owner who hauls your boat with a boat trailer make sure that the trailer is ready to go as well.

The first thing to check is the lights, they need to be working to ensure overall safety when transporting the boat.

Double check the wheel bearings and greased and ready, and that the tires are in good shape to be hauling, as well as the power steering in the vehicle.

Safety Gear Check

When boating there is the necessary safety equipment that is required to be on board the boat at all times.

The coast guard requires that all boats have life jackets or vests per person on board, if the vessel is more than 16 feet, a throwable floatation device is required.

Approved fire extinguishers, a bell or whistle such as a horn, and at least three visual distress signals such as flares.

Items that aren’t required by the coast guard but still other boat owners recommend having on board are a first aid kit, extra fuel, a tool kit, a bucket used in case of bailing, oars or paddles, and an anchor.

Having a list of safety gear that is prepared each time will ensure a great time for boating.

Check The Pumps

The pumps keep the boat going and equipment must be checked each time before boating.

The bilge pump is a system that keeps excessive water from pooling into the boat, this component is necessary for the safety of everyone on board. If this pump fails to operate, the equipment inside the boat can flood.

Make sure that the bilge pump system is turned off after use because the motor can drain the battery if left on.

Check The Cooling System

The water pump and thermostat on the boat need to be working correctly to keep the engine cool for the proper functioning of the boat. Double-check each hose and make sure there aren’t any cracks, wear, or leaks. If there is any damage, replace the hose before boating to make sure it’s safe.

Filters

Boaters should remove and replace fuel filters regularly. Many boat owners have run into an issue with blended gasoline and it’s dissolving the debris that is in the gas tank.

Experts recommend changing the fuel filter frequently and checking on the fluid hoses. They also say to avoid purchasing gas that features ethanol.

Check Fuel Lines