List: Boater’s Pre-departure Checklist
- AM – FM Radio
- Alternate Propulsion (paddles/oar)
- Anchor and Tackle
- Any Additional State Requirements
- Backfire Flame Arrestor
- Binoculars
- Cellular Phone
- Certificate of Documentation
- Chart(s) of Area & Navigation Tools
- Check Electrical System
- Check Engine Fluids
- Check Fuel Amount
- Check Fuel System for any leaks
- Check Galley / Heating Systems
- Check Gauges (i.e. batteries)
- Check for any excessive water in bilges
- Check load of vessel and secure gear from shifting
- Check the Weather Forecast
- Ensure Anchor is ready for use
- Ensure Boat Plug is properly installed
- Ensure passengers know Emergency Procedures and Equipment Location
- Everyone put on a Lifejacket to check for proper fitting.
- Extra Clothing
- Fenders and Boat Hook
- File a Float Plan with family or friend
- Fire Extinguishers (fully charged)
- First Aid Kit
- Flashlight & Batteries
- Food and Water
- Garbage Placard
- Lifejackets (PFDs) – one for each person
- Magnetic Compass
- Manual Bilge Pump or Bailing Device
- Marine Sanitation Device
- Mirror
- Mooring Lines and Heaving line
- Navigation lights
- Navigation rules
- Oil Pollution Placard
- Proper Ventilation
- Search Light
- Sound Producing Device(s)
- Spare Battery (fully charged)
- Spare Parts (fuses, spark plugs, belts, etc)
- Spare Propeller
- Spare Propeller
- State Numbering Displayed
- State Registration Documentation
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Test Bilge Pump
- Test Marine Radio (voice call)
- Test Navigation and Anchor Lights
- Test Steering (free movement)
- Test Tilt / Trim
- Throwable PFD
- Tool Kit
- VHF Marine Radio
- Visual Distress Signals
