The thrill of adrenaline is in the air. Your crew is pumped for a great day on the water. Everything is perfect, or is it? Chances are you are so rushed to take off that you have forgotten something. Prior to leaving the dock before waterskiing or wakeboarding, take a moment to anticipate what you may need on your trip and use the following checklist as a guide.
The Boat
You have not let anyone else borrow the boat, have you? Sound crazy? It has happened.
Boat Keys
Keys are often misplaced, just like car keys. Make sure your boat keys are attached to a floating key chain.
Weather
Did you check the weather? It may be sunny at the dock but is bad weather on the way?
Gas and the Blower
Try not leave the dock without a full tank of gas. You never know when you'll have an unexpected extended stay on the water.
Prior to starting the engine, turn on the blower and let it run a while to get the fumes out of the engine compartment. Explosions are no fun to witness and will put a quick end to a good day.
Marine Radio
Check to see if it is working. If it is not, try to take along a mobile phone to keep the lines of communication open.
Life Vests
Make sure you have life vests (otherwise known as life jackets or personal flotation devices) that actually fit everyone. It is mandatory in most states that everyone on board must have access to a jacket.
Water Sports Equipment
Did you remember all your water toys? Are the water skis, kneeboard, wakeboard, trick skis, towables (tubes), and gloves all on board?
Proceed to Part II
Visit Part II to continue the boating checklist.