Routine Check of Boating Equipment

It's so tempting for the new boat owner to want to get their new baby afloat and hit the open waters and to skip a check of their boating equipment. However, with turning the key for the first time comes some responsibility. First, it's a good idea for the beginning boater and even the old pro to remember the importance of checking out the boat’s parts and equipment before setting sail.

Inspect all Essential Boating Equipment

Whether it's for an early morning fishing trip or perhaps a weekend of island cruising, using a boat can be more of a risk than driving a car. So, it's just plain smart to inspect all essential boating equipment and parts before heading out. A quick function and safety check can mean the difference between a great day fishing and a bad night being stuck or worse.

Here's what to look for when inspecting boat parts:

Navigational equipment: Each and every time you pull away from the dock, make sure to do a quick check of these vital boat. Whether you're using a simple compass or more advanced GPS, having the navigational equipment working right is essential for a smooth and safe journey.

Engines: Make sure the boat motor is operating as it should. All that's really necessary here is to fire her up and listen closely for any irregularities; anything out of the norm. Most boat owners become acutely aware of what their engine should sound like. Many even become old pros at fixing minor problems themselves, such as engine flooding.

Lights: Even a daytime trip can turn into a nighttime excursion if you decide to stay out later or if something goes wrong, so checking out these boat parts is recommended. Do a careful check of every light from the running lights down to the spot. Don’t get stuck out on the water with no lights.

Communication devices: It's not a good idea to plan on heading out into open waters without having a good communication system onboard. Check the system before each outing to make sure it's in working order.

Safety and Boating Equipment

Safety equipment: This is essential. Check your safety equipment from the fire extinguisher to the life vests.  This should be a standard check each time you leave on an excursion whether short or long.

If any of your boating equipment need replacement or repair, make sure you handle that before your next trip. Sometimes generic boat parts will do the trick and even used ones, but in some instances, getting the name brand replacement will be in order. In either case, shopping around and looking for the best quality for your dollar is always a smart idea.

Smart boat owners keep spare boat parts on hand to have in the event of an emergency. Some day you may be so happy you brought along those back up batteries or small tools and parts to fix the engine.  It’s a great idea to have good supply stowed under a seat or in a compartment on the boat kept out of the weather. Don’t forget to keep an extra set of light bulbs for the lights and tape to repair seats and floatation devices on hand too.

Finally make sure your life raft is in good working order and ready for any emergency.  Better to repair this before you need it in a pinch when you  probably won't have the time or ability to fix a leak or patch a hold.

Boating is a great pastime, but it does come with some planning and care.  Making sure all of your boating equipment and  parts are in good working order before each trip is a great way to make sure each trip is fun, safe and memorable.

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