Transcription of checklist - NMMA
1 PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES (PFDS)o Have onboard one PFD per passenger, minimum of twoo Have onboard a throwable device (for vessels larger than 16 ft.)o Discuss proper use/location of PFDsSOUND PRODUCING DEVICESo Have onboard a horn that can emit a four-second blast audible for 1/2 mileo Bring a spare can of air or an alternate deviceo Attach a whistle to each PFDLIGHTS & SHAPESo Test navigation lightso Check instrument lightso Be sure to use day-shapes (mast-head signals) if your boating activites require day-shapeso Bring a flashlight and spare batteriesDISTRESS SIGNALS o Ensure that flares, day signals, etc., are accessible and stored in a dry locationo Discuss location, proper use and safety rulesTOOLS & SPARESo Be sure to have a basic toolbox with boat-appropriate toolso Be sure to bring a spare fuel filter, light bulbs, head parts, through-hull plugs, & OILo Check fuel levelso Check the engine oil and coolant levelsFIRE EXTINGUISHERSo Make sure you have a fully charged, accessible fire extinguisher(s)
2 As specified in Coast Guard ruleso Ensure mounts are secure and functionalo Discuss location with passengers and crewVENTILATIONo On any powered vessel or vessels using LPG, check that interior spaces are well ventilatedo If you smell fuel before ventilating, run blowers for several minutes and re-check before startingo If odors persist, shut down the engine and look for the source of the leakBILGESo Ensure bilges are reasonably dry and pumps are not running excessively o Clean any spilled oil or waste in bilges to prevent overboard dischargeWEATHER FORECASTo Check the weather forecast before departureo Have portable radio onboard for weather updatesBATTERY CAREo For dual charging systems, check that the selector switch is in the proper positiono Ensure power is on to the entire vesselo Bring spare batteries for handheld radio, flashlight, portable navigational aid, Ensure rechargeable batteries are chargedDOCKING & ANCHORING TIPSo Be sure to have one anchor set up and bent-on the anchor lineo Bring two or three extra dock lineso Visually inspect lines for chafe or wearo Bring fenders (minimum 2) for docking or towingRULES & DOCUMENTATIONo Bring ship s papers, radio license, fishing permit, Bring chart(s) for the area you intend to cruisecontent provided by checklist
