Run this before every trip. Takes 3 minutes. Could save your life.
Float plan left with someone ashore
Vessel description, destination, expected return time, number of people aboard
Crew briefed on safety gear location
Life jackets, fire extinguisher, flares, VHF radio, kill switch
VHF radio on and monitoring Channel 16
Handheld VHF charged (backup)
Phone charged and in waterproof case
Emergency contacts saved and accessible
One wearable PFD per person aboard
Must be USCG-approved and the right size
PFDs inspected — no rips, missing straps, or mold
Children have life jackets on
Required by law in most states for children under 13 on moving vessels
Type IV throwable PFD accessible on deck
Required on motorized vessels 16 ft and over
Engine cut-off lanyard attached to operator
Required by federal law since April 2021 on boats with kill switch capability
Fire extinguisher present, pin intact, gauge in green
Enough fuel for trip + 1/3 reserve
Rule of thirds: 1/3 out, 1/3 back, 1/3 reserve — use 1/4 for offshore
No fuel smell in bilge before starting
Run blower 4+ minutes after fueling before starting engine
Bilge blower run for 4+ minutes after fueling
Carbon monoxide detector working
CO is colorless and odorless — detectors save lives
Navigation lights working
Required from sunset to sunrise and in restricted visibility
Anchor light available if anchoring overnight
Charts or chartplotter for area
Paper backup recommended for extended trips
Compass working and not obstructed
Depth sounder/fish finder on and working
GPS/chartplotter on and position verified
Visual distress signals present and not expired
Required on coastal/Great Lakes waters for vessels 16 ft and over
Sound-producing device (horn or whistle)
Required by federal law
Anchor and rode aboard
Scope: 5:1 minimum, 7:1 in open anchorage
First aid kit stocked and accessible
Bilge pump working / manual bailer aboard
EPIRB registered and battery current
For offshore and coastal passages
Marine forecast checked (VHF WX or NOAA)
Check the specific marine zone for your area, not just land weather
Barometer trend checked
Rapidly falling pressure = approaching storm
Tide times and heights checked
Critical for shoal areas, inlets, and docking
Weather window confirmed for passage length
Seas lag behind wind — factor in deterioration after departure
Comfortable with current and forecast conditions
If in doubt, don't go. The water will be there tomorrow.
Bilge dry or normal level
Through-hull fittings checked and seacocks operational
Engine started and warm — oil pressure, temp normal
Dock lines, fenders, and mooring gear stowed
Registration, documentation, and insurance aboard