BOATsmart! USA Knowledge Base

STEP 1: Ensure your boat is securely moored to the dock.

STEP 2: Shut down all motors.

STEP 3: Ask your passengers to exit the boat and to wait on shore.

STEP 4: Extinguish any open flames, including cigarettes and pilot lights.

STEP 5: Close all doors, windows, ports and any hatches.

STEP 6: Shut down all electrical equipment.

STEP 7: Have a fire extinguisher available in case of emergency.

STEP 8: Check for leaks and fuel odors.

STEP 9: When fueling at a pump, keep the gas nozzle against the rim of the filler pipe. This will ensure the pump is grounded and will reduce the risk of ignition due to static electricity.

STEP 10: Never overfill the fuel tank. Be sure to clean up any spillage and securely tighten the filler cap.

STEP 11: If your pleasure craft is equipped with an enclosed engine compartment, you must operate the ventilation system (blower) for at least four minutes prior to engine start-up.

STEP 12: Re-check for the smell of fuel vapors or odors (do not re-start your engine if excessive fuel odors are detected).

STEP 13: Start the motor.