HANHAM INSURANCE AGENCY

Things To Consider Before Leaving The Dock

 

• Know what you’re doing. Before you leave the dock, ask yourself. “If something goes wrong today, am I actually prepared to handle any situation?”. If the answer is no, then bring a friend who is experienced, or take a training course. This could end up saving your life.

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• Safety Check – Be sure to check check your boat and any safety equipment that you have onboard. If you haven’t been out on the boat for a while, be sure to check carefully.

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• Double check your fire extinguishers. Know where they are, and be sure that they are properly charged and are not out of date.

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• Be sure that you have the correct first aid kit onboard. A 1 minute check, could save someone’s life.

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• Check to make sure that you have the correct number of PDFs (Lifejackets). In the worst case scenario, you do not want to be liable if there are not enough life jackets.

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• If you are alone, always wear a lifejacket and be sure to attach an emergency engine shutoff to your lifejacket in case you are thrown overboard.

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• Tell friends on land where you are planning on going, and roughly what time you will be back. You don’t want to be stranded and not have anyone looking for you.

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• Check your VHF radio battery and ensure that it is working so that you can call the Coast Guard in case of an emergency.

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• Check the weather and tides before you leave the dock. You don’t want to be in a situation that you could have prepared for.

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• Check your fuel levels and check your engine before you leave the dock.

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• Remember, “When in doubt, don’t go out.” It is better to be safe than sorry.