As the temperature rises and falls in late winter and early spring, the rain pelts down sometimes and ice forms at other times. If your boat is stored outside, expansion and contraction are destructive and water that accumulates tries to penetrate.

Therefore, it’s best to check your boat periodically even before you’re prepared to get it ready for the season. You can’t see everything, but look for signs of water getting in, dried out caulking, corroded and cracked thru-hull fittings and hoses, clamps and valves  that need tightening, and accumulation of debris.

Safety is paramount while checking out the boat. It’s best to make every off-season boat check a two-person job in case an extra pair of hands is needed or a phone call becomes necessary. If you do go solo, take it slow and make sure someone knows where you are and when you’re done.

Leave the boat shoes at home; wear shoes with traction. Watch your back by firmly planting your feet and don’t underestimate the weight of water or ice. Never pick up a boat tarp or canvas laden with ice or snow — remove as much as you can first. Shoveling or chipping away at ice may cause damage and/or rips, so it’s best to use the same kind of stiff broom used to clear the top of your car.

Storage on land

Check jack stands and blocks to ensure they haven’t moved, but don’t ever attempt to adjust or move by yourself. Do not tie tarps to stands as winds could pull them out.

Storage in water

Wear a life jacket and note where the dock ladders are located. Always keep one hand on the boat when adjusting covers or lines that are difficult to reach. Lines should be inspected (and enforced as needed) and displaced fenders repositioned.