Boater's Pre-Departure Checklist

Know your vessel. Before departure, always be sure your vessel is in good working
condition and properly equipped for emergencies. Avoid inconvenience and potential
danger by taking a few minutes to check the following:

 

 

 

 

Minimum Federal Required Equipment

Yes

No

State Registration Documentation

 

 

State Numbering Displayed

 

 

Certificate of Documentation

 

 

Lifejackets (PFDs) - one for each person

 

 

Throwable PFD

 

 

Visual Distress Signals

 

 

Fire Extinguishers (fully charged)

 

 

Proper Ventilation

 

 

Backfire Flame Arrestor

 

 

Sound Producing Device(s)

 

 

Navigation lights

 

 

Oil Pollution Placard

 

 

Garbage Placard

 

 

Marine Sanitation Device

 

 

Navigation rules

 

 

Any Additional State Requirements

 

 

 

 

 

Besides meeting the federal requirements, prudent boaters carry additional safety equipment. The following additional items are suggested depending on the size, location and use of your boat:

 

 

 

 

Recommended Equipment

Yes

No

N/A

VHF Marine Radio

 

 

 

Anchor and Tackle

 

 

 

Chart(s) of Area & Navigation Tools

 

 

 

Magnetic Compass

 

 

 

Fenders and Boat Hook

 

 

 

Mooring Lines and Heaving line

 

 

 

Manual Bilge Pump or Bailing Device

 

 

 

Tool Kit

 

 

 

Spare Parts (fuses, spark plugs, belts, etc)

 

 

 

Spare Battery (fully charged)

 

 

 

Spare Propeller

 

 

 

Extra Fuel & Oil

 

 

 

Alternate Propulsion (paddles/oar)

 

 

 

Flashlight & Batteries

 

 

 

Search Light

 

 

 

First Aid Kit

 

 

 

Sunscreen (SPF 30+)

 

 

 

Mirror

 

 

 

Food and Water

 

 

 

Extra Clothing

 

 

 

AM - FM Radio

 

 

 

Cellular Phone

 

 

 

Binoculars

 

 

 

 

 

 

Safety Checks and Tests

Yes

No

N/A

Test Marine Radio (voice call)

 

 

 

Test Navigation and Anchor Lights

 

 

 

Test Steering (free movement)

 

 

 

Test Tilt / Trim

 

 

 

Test Bilge Pump

 

 

 

Check for any excessive water in bilges

 

 

 

Check Fuel System for any leaks

 

 

 

Check Engine Fluids

 

 

 

Ensure Boat Plug is properly installed

 

 

 

Check Electrical System

 

 

 

Check Galley / Heating Systems

 

 

 

Check Gauges (i.e. batteries)

 

 

 

Check Fuel Amount

 

 

 

Ensure Anchor is ready for use

 

 

 

Check load of vessel and secure gear from shifting

 

 

 

Ensure passengers know Emergency Procedures and Equipment Location

 

 

 

Everyone put on a Lifejacket to check for proper fitting.

 

 

 

Check the Weather Forecast

 

 

 

File a Float Plan with family or friend