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Punxsutawney Phil was right when he said we’d have an early spring! For that matter, I guess it has been spring since January. Or “June-uary” as my neighbor has called our winter months this year. I am excited that spring is officially upon us! Some of the best things in Texas materialize when the days get longer.
Boating Season is Here!
One of the greatest parts of a Texas spring is boating season! Out on a lake, the warm weather and bright sun provide the perfect backdrop to the refreshing water and lake breezes. That’s why we’ve put together this list of tips to make sure you’re 100% prepared to launch your boat the moment the weather allows. We hope that this list prevents any unexpected hazards or problems that could otherwise ruin your fun-filled outing!
Safety Tips
- Ventilate your boat. It’s important to be sure your gas tanks are properly vented, and that there are no harmful vapors, oil, waste, or grease present in the bilges of your craft.
- Always keep an operational fire extinguisher onboard.
- Get a certified marine technician to check out your boat’s systems every year before you take it no the water.
- Tune it up. Winterizing your watercraft is important. Even if you got it done last year, it never hurts to have your boat checked and tuned up before it hits the water again this year.
- Check your battery! Is it fully charged?
- Refill and flush the gas lines. It’s likely there’s residual gas in your boat’s system from the last time you used it. Refilling completely with fresh fuel prevents buildup in the lines and tanks.
- Test your motor. Before you fully submerge your boat, lower the motor into the water and start it up to ensure it’s functioning properly.
- Check your drain plug and bilge pump are in working order to make sure you don’t take on water while boating.
- Double- and triple-check! Are your registration documents in order? Do you have life vests for every passenger? Is your ski flag handy? You don’t want to be turned away for missing any of these simple, but important, items. Be sure that you’ve got your boat stocked with everything you need.
- Check your owner’s manual. Your boat’s manufacturer always includes special information necessary to maintain your specific model.
- If you’re interested, look into free safety checks from The Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadrons.
Enjoy the Spring Weather
Now that your boat is ready, make sure you’re prepared for all of the other great outdoor activities you can enjoy during this Texas spring! And if you need some insurance coverage on any other crafts, from boat to motorcycle, RV/camper, and motorhomes, and lots of other recreational crafts, we’re ready to help you keep your investments safe. Keep Britton and Britton insurance in mind when you need a quote.
As always, we hope that you have a safe and enjoyable boating season!
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