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11 tips before you head out to sea

By Bradley Everett

1. Check safety equipment (boating safety guides at store)
• All new regulations for Canadian
registered vessels.
• Fire extinguishers must be charged.
• Personal water craft have new regs.
• U.S. Reg. Boats have different standards.
• First aid kit and life jackets (PFD).
2. Check hoses, belts and sea cocks.
3. Change oil and oil & fuel filters
4. Check batteries
• Corrosion on terminals.
• Water level.
5. Check all navigation lights.
6. Check anchor line and dock lines for wear.
7. Check electronic & electrical equipment & communication (receive & transmit)
8. Check charts and tide tables
9. Check props/outdrives/zincs and bottom paint condition.
• Fouled bottom/drives burn more fuel.
10. Check weather conditions.
• Have you let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
• And a description of your boat – like the name and call name.
11. Canadian Coast Guard ‘Pleasure Craft Operator Card.’ .

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