Boat owners eagerly anticipate the summer, with most days spent on the water. However, preparing your boat for the expected heavy use must begin now, or you risk missing out on the summer fun. The team at Griffith Insurance LLP in West Chester, PA can create a checklist that protects your boat against offshore accidents.

Clean The Fuel System

An essential first step in preparing your boat for the summer is thoroughly flushing the fuel system. This will remove all the sludge and debris that have built up in the fuel tank during the winter months. If you fail to act before placing your boat in the water, the contaminants will clog the fuel line, causing the motor to stall and not run smoothly through the inlet.

Conduct a General Safety Check

To prepare your boat for a summer on the water, you need to conduct a comprehensive general safety check. First, inspect the hull for any damage that may have occurred while the boat was in storage for the winter. Look for small cracks that could turn into a major leak if left untreated. Severe water damage to the hull could ground the boat for the entire summer.

Also, check the condition of your life jackets and fire extinguishers. Each should be accessible to your passengers in case of an emergency. The life jackets should be Coast Guard-approved and fit individuals of all sizes properly. Confirm each fire extinguisher’s expiration date and ensure they’re functioning correctly.

Having the right boat insurance policy will provide peace of mind while you’re on the water. To update your coverage, contact Griffith Insurance LLP in West Chester, PA to ensure your boat is protected for increased use. Call and schedule an appointment today.