2013 New York Safe Boating Textbook - (Page 38)

consistently and correct problems when you find them. It’s no fun to break down when you’re boating, and if you need a tow ashore, the price can be steep. Some items need attention before every trip. We’ve already discussed most of these in earlier chapters, but they’re so important they bear repeating:  oil leaks  taking on water Storage You’ll reduce the chance of damage to your boat, motor, and trailer if you store the boat and trailer properly at the end of the season. Good storage practices also will save time and trouble at the beginning of the next boating season when it is time to get your boat ready for the water. Proper storage helps prevent rust and dry rot; protects your engine, fuel and cooling systems; and protects and preserves your electronic equipment. Follow these simple steps for dry storage of your boat during the off-season:  Make sure there is a boat plug and a back-up, and that the plugs are watertight. clamps, and belts.  Before launching or fueling your boat, check hoses,  Check fluid levels and look for leakage of oil or water in the bilge. hoses.  Inspect the backfire flame arrester and ventilation  Check electrical equipment such as the bilge pump, ventilation blower, navigation lights, horn, and marine radio.  Remove the drain plug.  If using a cover, allow an opening where fresh air can circulate through the boat.  Raise and lower the outdrive.  Check all safety equipment making sure you’ve  Re-pack wheel bearings on the trailer.  Leave your fuel tank full to prevent the build-up of water condensation inside the tank. antifreeze during winter storage. got the required PFDs and signaling devices for the waters on which you’ll be boating.  Check the expiration date on signal flares and replace if needed.  If your boat has a closed cooling system, fill with  If your boat has an open cooling system (outboards and stern drives), flush with fresh water and make sure it is completely drained before storing.  Check the charge indicator on the fire extinguisher and re-charge or replace if necessary.  Inventory the on-board tool kit and make sure all tools are included and that they are in good working order. the correct sizes, extra spark plugs and drain plugs, and spare bulbs for running lights. pressure, brakes, turning and back-up lights, tiedowns, and chains. Be sure the hitch is the proper size for the hitch ball.  Check to make sure you have replacement fuses in  Before trailering your boat, check the trailer’s tire If you’ll be storing your boat on the water for any length of time, adjust your mooring lines taking into account the range of tides. Cover your lines (chafing gear-such as a piece or canvas, leather, rope or plastic tubing) where they rub against hard objects or other lines to protect your mooring lines from chafing. Leave the battery on for your bilge pump. Consider providing a periodic heat source or an exhaust fan inside the cabin to reduce the accumulation of moisture. Always be aware of the weather forecast, and protect your boat by securing its moorings if there is large storm coming. Once you’ve developed and started using your list, you’ll find more things to add. Although checking all of these items before every trip may seem tedious, in the end doing so will help you get on the water faster and keep you safe so you can make the most of your time on the water. Boat Theft & Security Protect your boat and its contents as you protect your car and your home. Don’t be an easy target for thieves; prevention is the key. Emergency Repairs Good preventative maintenance and proper planning will greatly reduce—but can never eliminate—emergency repairs. Learn how to do some small repair jobs yourself so that you can get back to shore and out of danger if there is a problem. Carry a basic tool kit (wrenches, pliers, screw drivers, duct tape) and some important spare parts (spark plugs, drive belt, shear pins) and learn how to handle: Here are some simple steps to follow:  Lock all compartments and take the keys and your ignition keys, with you. keys separate.  Keep your boat’s ignition keys, cabin keys and car  Don’t leave anything loose in the cockpit or on deck—affix anything that’s not secure. the boat.  broken drive belts  broken pipes or hoses  broken shear pins 38  Never leave anything valuable visible when you leave 

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of 2013 New York Safe Boating Textbook

2013 New York Safe Boating Textbook
Contents
Introduction
Boats and Motors
Registration of Boats
Equipment
Fueling and Ventilation
Safe Loading and Powering
Preparation for Getting Underway
The Marine Environment
Rules of the Road
Boat Operations
Seamanship
Navigation
Personal Watercraft
Boating Related Activities
Accidents and Emergencies
Frequently Asked Questions
Chapter Review Questions Answers

2013 New York Safe Boating Textbook

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