BOATsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Completing a Pre-Departure Checklist before getting underway will provide you with the peace of mind you need to enjoy your time on the water. Checking that your boat has the right safety equipment and making sure your passengers know how to properly use the equipment is time well spent!

Always talk to your passengers before you leave the dock. You could even hold a mock emergency training session to familiarize your passengers with emergency procedures.

Your passengers should know where the lifejackets are located, they should be shown how to properly secure them and they should be encouraged to wear their lifejackets at all times. They should also know where to find the fire extinguishers, flares and first aid kit.

The following procedures should be explained to your passengers:

• The discharge and management of waste.
• Anchoring procedures.
• How to use  the emergency radio (if applicable).
• Storm/rough weather procedures.
• Line handling procedures.
• Emergency boat operation procedures.
• Rescue procedures.

Download a free Pre-Departure Checklist here. 

The Coast Guard Auxiliary offers free courtesy checks for boats to help ensure that operators have the proper safety equipment on board and to identify any potential problems. For more information, contact the USCG Auxiliary. This link will help you find the closest unit to your boat: http://www.uscg.mil/top/units/