Safety checklists

Taken from the U.S. Coast Guard's own guidance, with the source under each list. Print this page, or keep the ones you use in your logbook as tasks.

Every fueling (U.S. Coast Guard)

Refuel portable tanks ashore.
Close hatches and openings. Put out smoking materials. Turn off engines, electrical equipment, radios, stoves and appliances. Passengers off.
Keep the nozzle in contact with the tank; wipe up any spill.
Afterwards open ports, hatches and doors. Run the blower at least four minutes.
Check the bilges and do the sniff test. Do not start the engine until all traces of fuel vapour are gone.
Plan fuel by the one-third rule: one third out, one third back, one third in reserve.

Source: Boater's Guide: Fueling Precautions (PDF page 43), U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Division.

Seals and tamper indicators not broken or missing.
Pressure gauge or indicator, if fitted, in the operable range.
No obvious damage, rust, corrosion, leakage or clogged nozzle.
Not expired: non-rechargeable extinguishers expire 12 years from the date stamped on the bottom.
If the label states a minimum weight, weigh it once a year.
Replace (or have recharged) any extinguisher that fails a check or has been partly used.

Watch swimmers near the boat; keep people off the rear deck and swim platform while the generator or engines run.
Irritated eyes, headache, nausea, weakness or dizziness: fresh air at once, find the cause, get medical help if needed.
Regular maintenance and proper operation are the best defence. The Coast Guard CO page has trip, monthly and annual checklists.

Drain plugs in (trailered boats).
Check the local forecast.
Leave a float plan with a responsible person (Float Plan Central, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary).
Bilges clean and dry; no tripping or fire hazards aboard.
VHF radio on Channel 16; know the MAYDAY procedure.