Every year, we try to take time to remind boaters of the importance of pre-underway checks. As the weather is improving and summer is fast approaching – now is a great time to start making sure your boat is ready.
After sitting through the winter, or even for a few weeks or months, things can become drained, corroded, or inoperable. It is important to check things out even before leaving home.
A dead battery can prevent you from ever leaving the docks – crank up your engine and let it run for at least 15-20 minutes with a hose attachment to get water flowing. Watch for the discharge, is it flowing freely? Different insects can quickly start building nests preventing good water flow.
Even if you do not plan to be out into the evening, make sure your running and anchor lights are working. No one can predict an accident or technical difficulties – you don’t want to get caught out after dark with no lights.
Make sure your radio is in good working order. Check your life jackets, with our heat and humidity, they can mildew quickly! Double-check that you have enough in good working condition for everyone onboard. Visual distress signals such as flares can also become corroded. A quick visual inspection – paying attention to expiration dates – is good practice.
Lastly, before you head out, let someone know your plans. Where are you launching from, rough area you plan to explore and when you expect to be back. Even if you do not use a formal float plan, communication is important and can be life-saving if something goes wrong and you are in need of assistance.
Thanks to Sherrie, we will always remember safe boating is no accident! Pre-planning before even making it to the water’s edge can help you have a great day on the water.
If you would like to learn more about vessel safety checks, please contact Steve Hults, Staff Officer for Vessel Examinations at steve.hults@uscgaux.net.
Please contact us for more information about our safe boating classes or learning more about getting involved in the Auxiliary, check out our website at www.uscgaux.net follow us on FaceBook @ Apalachee Bay Flotilla 12 or contact our Flotilla Commander Phil Hill at pnkkhill2000@yahoo.com.
The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian volunteer component of the U.S. Coast Guard and supports the Coast Guard in nearly all mission areas. The Auxiliary was created by Congress in 1939. For more information, please visit www.cgaux.org.
