The sun is shining, and it’s the perfect weather to go boating. Before you go on your first excursion of the season, there are a few things you should prepare. The process may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be if you prepare ahead of time. Here are a few tips for preparing your boat for the season.
Renew Your Registration
Although it’s not required to have boaters insurance, it is necessary to have your boat registered in your state. There is nothing worse than preparing to go on a joyride and realizing your registration has expired.
Clean Your Boat Thoroughly
When preparing your boat for the season, you should start by thoroughly cleaning your boat. Scrub the interior space with detergent before hosing it down. You want to ensure no mold or mildew is in your cabin or on your watercraft. After cleaning the inside, clean the boat’s exterior and rinse off any detergent.
Do a Visual Inspection and Repair
Check your boat from top to bottom, inside and out. Search for hull damages, cracks, and scratches that could be a potential danger to you and your boat. After cleaning your boat, you should do a walk-through of it and do a visual inspection. Repair anything that’s out of place.
Battery, Light, and Engine Check
It’s essential to check the lights on your boat to ensure they work properly. It’s illegal to boat at night without working lights.
If your boat has a battery, you should inspect the acid levels and ensure the battery is in good shape and has an excellent charge. It would be best to clean any corrosion around the terminals with a mixture of water and baking soda.
If you didn’t check your engine during the fall or winter, it’s urgent to check it now. Drain any old fuel left in the tank and change the oil. After changing the oil, you should turn on the motor to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Ensure You Have the Appropriate Safety Gear
Check if you have the appropriate safety gear that complies with your state laws. It would be best if you always had enough life jackets for everyone on the boat. You should also have a Coast Guard approved fire extinguisher and first-aid kit on board.
