"The Best Seaman is the one that is prepared for any Marine Emergency, before the need to meet it arises" - E.S. Maloney, author of Chapman - Piloting, Seamanship and Small Boat Handling.

A Pre-Departure Checklist

Use this checklist prior to leaving the dock as a final review of important safety items

Ensure you have adequate fuel for your planned trip. The rule is one-third out, one-third back and one-third for safety.

Check all fluid levels; water, antifreeze, battery, oil and transmission. Add to your list any fluid levels for other needed equipment, such as cooking or generator.

Ensure you have an engine maintenance manual on board and are familiar with it.

Ensure your batteries are fully charged. If they aren’t, ensure you find out why before you leave the dock.

Check your supplies of spare parts and tools. Be especially mindful of what you can bring to plug leaks and repair your propulsion system.

Check the marine weather forecast beyond the planned duration of your trip.

Ensure your bilge pumps, both manual and electric, are working.

Ensure your mandatory safety equipment is on board and is in working condition. Ensure your guests know where the lifejackets are and how to use them.

Ensure your emergency kit is on board containing such items as a first aid kit, dry clothes, signaling equipment and dried food. Ensure your guests know where it is.

Ensure your navigation lights are functioning. This should involve operating them for 30 minutes.

File a Trip Plan with the marina or another responsible person.

Ensure your VHF radio is working, if you have an operator’s license.