Key things all guests must know
- Location of life jackets, first aid kit and fire extinguisher
- How to make a radio call (Boat name for the Coast Guard) (Push to talk, release to listen) Distress button on radio (GPS hooked up?)
- Where to find LAT/LONG on the boat…(GPS, Chartplotter, radio?) and how to transmit it
- Start/stop engine procedure
- Forward/ reverse operation
- Kill switch operation
- Anchor procedure
Pre-trip Checklist
Copy and paste the list below to your own document, then customize it to
fit your boat/PWC and the trips you take
ITEMS ON BOARD- __ Boater education certificates/boat registration- click here for specific details
- __ Lifejackets (PFDs) – one for each person
- __ Throwable PFD
- __ Visual Distress Signals
- __ Fire Extinguishers (fully charged)
- __ Sound Producing Device(s)
- __ 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, belts,spark plugs,etc.)
- __ Extra Fuel & Oil
- __ Flashlight & Batteries
- __ Search Light
- __ First Aid Kit
- __ Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- __ Mirror
- __ Food and Water
- __ Extra Clothing (Foul weather gear, hat, gloves, etc)
- __ Cellular Phone
- __ Camera
- __ GPS ( and spare batteries)
- __ Binoculars
- __ Fish Limits / Citation sizes
- __ Ice in summer, heat for hot drinks in winter
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