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:

Boater’s Pre-Departure Boater’s Pre-Departure
  • Minimum Federal Required Equipment

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  • State Registration Documentation 

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  • 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

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  • Fire Extinguishers (fully charged) 

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  • Proper Ventilation

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  • Backfire Flame Arrestor

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  • Sound Producing Device(s)

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  • Navigation lights

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  • Oil Pollution Placard 

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  • Garbage Placard

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  • Marine Sanitation Device

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  • Navigation rules

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  • Any Additional State Requirements 

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  • Recommended Equipment

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  • VHF Marine Radio 

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  • Anchor and Tackle 

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  • Chart(s) of Area & Navigation Tools 

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  • Magnetic Compass 

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  • Fenders and Boat Hook

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  • Mooring Lines and Heaving line

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  • Manual Bilge Pump or Bailing Device

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  • Tool Kit

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

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  • Spare Battery (fully charged) 

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  • Spare Propeller

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  • Spare Propeller

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  • Alternate Propulsion (paddles/oar)

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  • Flashlight & Batteries

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  • Search Light 

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  • First Aid Kit

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  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+) 

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  • Mirror

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  • Food and Water 

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  • Extra Clothing 

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  • AM - FM Radio

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  • Cellular Phone

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  • Binoculars

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  • Safety Checks and Tests

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  • Test Marine Radio (voice call) 

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  • Test Navigation and Anchor Lights

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  • Test Steering (free movement)

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  • Test Tilt / Trim

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  • Test Bilge Pump

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  • Check for any excessive water in bilges 

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  • Check Fuel System for any leaks 

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  • Check Engine Fluids 

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  • Ensure Boat Plug is properly installed

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  • Check Electrical System

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  • Check Galley / Heating Systems

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  • Check Gauges (i.e. batteries)

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  • Check Fuel Amount

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  • Ensure Anchor is ready for use

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  • Check load of vessel and secure gear from shifting 

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  • Ensure passengers know Emergency Procedures and Equipment Location

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  • Everyone put on a Lifejacket to check for proper fitting. 

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  • Check the Weather Forecast 

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  • File a Float Plan with family or friend 

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