Owner`s manual

10-4
Section 10 Operation
DC 325
10.4 Pre-Cruise Check
Before Starting The Engines:
Check the weather forecast. Decide if your
planned cruise can be made safely.
Make sure all required documents are
onboard.
Make sure all necessary safety equipment is
onboard and operative; items like running
lights, spotlight, life saving devices, etc.
Refer to Safety Equipment for additional
information.
Each person onboard must have at least
one personal flotation device onboard and
one throwable device. Check the U.S. Coast
Guard standards for the correct type
required for your boat.
• Make sure signal kits are onboard and
are in good operating condition and are
not expired.
• Make sure you have sufficient water and
other provisions for the planned cruise.
• Leave a written message listing details
of your planned cruise (Float Plan) with a
close friend ashore. Include a descrip-
tion of your boat, where you intend to
cruise, schedule of your arrival in the
• cruising area and when you expect to
return.
• Keep the person informed of any
changes in your plan to prevent false
alarms. This information can tell authori-
ties where to look and your boat type in
the event you fail to arrive.
• Check the amount of fuel onboard.
Observe the “rule of thirds”: one third of
the fuel for the trip out, one third to return
and one third in reserve. An additional
15% may be consumed in rough seas.
• Check the water separating fuel filters for
water.
• Turn on the battery switches.
• Check for bilge water and for other signs
of potential problems. Monitor for the
scent of fuel fumes.
• Test the automatic and manual bilge
pump switches to make sure the system
is working properly.
• Have a tool kit and spare parts onboard.
The kit should include basic tools:
❑ Spark Plug Wrench
❑ Hammer
❑ Spark Plug Gap Gauge
❑ Electrician’s Tape
❑ Screwdrivers
❑ Lubricating Oil
❑ Pliers
❑ Jackknife
❑ Adjustable Wrench
❑ Vise Grip Pliers
❑ Needle Nose Pliers
❑ Wire Crimping Tool
❑ End Wrench Set
❑ Wire Connector Set
! CAUTION
Storms and waves can move buoys,
do not rely on buoys alone to deter-
mine your position.