Spring Launch Basics

Once you’ve prepped your vessel for boating season a few times, the routine becomes second nature — inspect, lubricate, repair, replace, and renew. However, new boaters and those in a hurry may benefit from a rudimentary checklist.

• If it can clog, bend, rot, leak, ding, crack, rip, evaporate, disintegrate, corrode, chafe, or loosen on the boat, the trailers, and/or the dock, assess it.
• Re-check what you fixed and replaced before winterizing. Stuff happens.
• Are the dates of the fire extinguishers and smoke/CO detectors good through the season?
• Don’t assume the horn will work. Give it a test beep.
• Update your paper charts (you still need them) and navigation/operation electronic software.
• Did the cushions, pillows, curtains, and towels winter aboard? Check for mold.
• Try on children’s life jackets and replace any that have been outgrown. Same with your furry companion.
• Replace all dried up, mostly used, and expired first aid products.