South Shore Power Squadron
a unit of the United States Power Squadrons®
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Safety Officer's Message: Pilots check their planes, why would you not check your boat?CO/Smoke Detectors- Test all units on board. There are test buttons - follow manufacturer's direction.Fire Extinguishers-Check the expiration date on the side of the housing. If it is within the next 90 days, buy a new one and then note the new expiration date in you ship's log. -Make sure the safety pin is in place-Check the pressure gauge. If you are not sure if it reads in the safe zone, replace the unit.-Check the nozzle from obstructions-Make sure you've got the right type of extinguishers: A,B or C and that they are properly located and stowed on your vessel.-If you have a dry chemical extinguisher (most of us do)turn the unit upside down and shake it hard as the contents tend to settle on the bottom-If you have a suppression system in your engine room (compartment) you will need to accurately weigh the container. Perhaps it is best to have a pro do this one.Flares-Check the expiration dates. If they are within the next 90 days, replace them with new ones and then note the new expiration date in you ship's log. Give your old ones to either the Police or Fire Department. Chances are they will be able to use them before you. (We hope) Hand Held VHF's -Test them at the dock. Flip to the weather channel and see if it is receiving and then do a radio check. -Make sure there is no mold or dirt in the battery compartment.PFD's -Make sure you have the correct number and size for the passengers you are likely to have on board.-For inflatables, make sure the CO2 cylinder is fully charged: not damaged or punctured. Test the integrity of all inflatables by manually inflating them and leaving them overnight to see if they leak.-Make sure each inflatable has it's CO2 canister and that you have a spare for each one. -If the inflatable is automatic, replace the Water-Activated Bobbin. -If the PFD has a strobe light attached to it, make sure it is functioning properly. If you are not sure about the strength/ integrity of the batteries - replace them.Miscellaneous -Check you ground tackle - is your anchor rode in good shape? Is it properly marked? Are the shackle pins tight and secured?-Put new batteries in all your flashlights. Remember to load them backwards so you won't drain them by accident. -Examine your portable bilge pump for cracked or even missing hoses. Do youhave a portable bilge pump?-Check your Nav lights. The lamps are inexpensive to replace, but they are vital to your safety and the safety of others on thewater.The time to find out that there is an issue with ANY of these things is at the dock, NOT out on the water!
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