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 | ||
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Certificate of Documentation |
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Lifejackets (PFDs) - one for each person |
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Throwable PFD |
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| 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 |