Chapter 2: Before You Get Underway
Vessel Maintenance

Keeping your vessel well-maintained will extend its life and give you and your family many more years of enjoyment.

• Examine the interior and exterior of the hull when it is out of the water.
  • Check for oxidation, a common problem on aluminum hulls, that appears as white powder spots. Use fine sandpaper on oxidized areas until spots are replaced by bright shiny metal.
  • To protect the environment, use only environmentally safe, non-phosphate detergents to remove oil and algae from fiberglass hulls. Avoid abrasive materials, which can remove the shiny top layer (gel coat). Patch holes immediately with a fiberglass patching compound.
  • Check through-hull fittings to make sure they are not cracked or leaking.
  • Remove all puddles from the interior before and after every outing.
• Store vessels in a dry area out of the sun. If you must store the vessel for a long period of time, place the trailer on blocks to preserve the tires. Keep the vessel covered, leaving an opening to circulate air. Hang canoes upside down.
• Clean all lines (ropes). Dirt and sand cause deterioration. Keep lines out of the sun when not in use, and replace weakened or fraying lines.
• Clean sails with a soft brush. Examine them for small tears or open seams that can be repaired by taping or sewing.
• Refer to the owner's manual for a maintenance schedule.

Engine Maintenance

Engine maintenance is important. Follow a regular maintenance program.

• Keep your engine clean and tuned properly. Refer to your owner's manual for a maintenance schedule.
• Check the oil and fluid levels before every outing. Change the oil according to the owner's manual. As the engine ages, increase the frequency of oil changes. Clean oil extends engine life.
• Tighten battery connections. Clean battery terminals by disconnecting the terminals and removing corrosion with a wire brush. If the battery is weak when you start the engine, recharge it.
• Inspect the engine for anything that shows signs of wear or requires tightening, such as hoses, belts, and bolts. Make sure everything is fitted properly, including the engine cover.
• Never use automotive electrical parts. Use marine parts only. Use of automotive parts rather than sealed marine parts (such as alternators, starters, fuel pumps, and other electrical parts) could cause a spark that could ignite a fire.

Preventing Theft

You can defend yourself against theft by becoming security conscious and by practicing common sense crime prevention measures. Here are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of theft of your boat, motor, and equipment.

• Store your boat so that it is not easily seen or the trailer easily accessed.
  • Store your boat and trailer in a locked garage or storage area. If the boat is stored at home, put it in the back or side yard out of sight.
  • Park another vehicle in front of the trailer, or chain or lock the trailer to a fixed object in a well-lighted area.
  • Secure the boat and trailer to a secure object with a good quality chain and lock. If moored, secure the boat to the dock with a steel cable and lock.
  • Remove one trailer wheel if parked for an extended time.
  • Purchase a good quality trailer hitch lock and use it—even if stored inside.
• Chain and lock the outboard motor and fuel tanks to the boat.
• Mark or engrave all equipment with an identifier such as your driver’s license number including state abbreviation, your SSN, or your name.
• Photograph or videotape the interior and exterior of your boat, showing all installed equipment and additional gear and equipment. Open drawers and lockers, and photograph the interiors and contents. Date and sign the photographs, and add any clarifying or identifying messages. Store the photographs in a safe place, not in the boat.
• Make a complete inventory of your marine equipment, boat, and trailer. In the event of any type of loss, this information will prove invaluable in making a prompt, accurate report for law enforcement and insurance purposes.
• Remove expensive electronics or other valuables if the boat is left unattended. When securing the boat, take home as much gear as possible, including TVs, radios, CBs, small outboard engines, and other gear.
• Cover your boat, and always remove the keys.