The Morning-Of Routine
A few checks before you back down the ramp can prevent everything from a dead battery to a swamped boat. Build this into your routine and it becomes second nature.
- Battery: check charge and clean the terminals
- Bilge pump: test it works and clears water
- Fuel: fill up before you arrive at the ramp
- Life jackets: one per person, the right size, within reach
- Drain plug: installed and snug
- Fire extinguisher: charged and accessible
- Horn and lights: test both
- Anchor and line: ready to deploy
- First-aid kit: stocked
- Weather: check the forecast and wind
The Drain Plug Is the One That Gets Everyone
It is the single most common ramp mistake. Make the plug the last thing you check before launch and the first thing you check when you pull the boat. A lanyard attached to the kill switch is a close second in importance.
Pro tipKeep a printed checklist laminated in your glove box. It takes ten minutes and catches the things you forget when you are in a hurry.
Tell Someone Your Plan
File a float plan with someone on shore — where you are going and when you will be back. It is free, takes two minutes, and is the best backup plan you will ever have.
Comments (1)
The laminated checklist idea is brilliant. Printed mine and it has already saved me twice.