| It's tempting for a new boat owner to want to | | | | Communication devices: It's not a good idea to |
| get their new baby afloat and hit the open | | | | plan on heading out into open waters without |
| waters. Turning that key for the first time does | | | | having a good communication system onboard. |
| come with some responsibility. It's a good idea for | | | | Check the system before each outing to make |
| the beginning boater and even the old pro to | | | | sure it's working. |
| remember the importance of checking out boat | | | | Safety equipment: It's never a bad idea to check |
| parts before they set sail. | | | | these out in advance of a trip, too. From the boat |
| Whether it's for an hour-long fishing trip in the | | | | seats to the life vests, these should be |
| morning or a weekend on an island camping, using | | | | considered a standard part of any boat part |
| a boat can be more of a risk than even driving a | | | | function check. |
| car. So, it's just plain smart to check out boat | | | | In addition to making sure boat parts are |
| parts before heading out. A quick function and | | | | functioning as they should, there will be some |
| safety check can mean the difference between a | | | | times boat owners will need to buy parts. To get |
| good day fishing and a bad night being stuck. | | | | the best deals on any necessary replacements, |
| Here's what to look for when inspecting boat | | | | from seats to engines, it's a good idea to shop |
| parts: | | | | around and be certain what's needed. |
| Navigational equipment: Do a quick check of these | | | | Sometimes generic boat parts will do the trick |
| vital boat parts before pulling away from the | | | | and even used ones, but in some instances, |
| docks each and every time. Whether you're using | | | | getting the name brand replacement will be in |
| a simple compass or more advanced GPS, having | | | | order. In either case, shopping around and looking |
| the navigational equipment working right is very | | | | for the best prices is a smart idea. |
| important for a smooth journey. | | | | Many boat owners keep spare boat parts on |
| Engines: Make sure the boat motor is operating as | | | | hand to have in the event of an emergency. |
| it should. All that's really necessary here is to fire | | | | From back up batteries to small tools and parts |
| it up and listen for any irregularities. Most boat | | | | to fix the engine, a good supply stowed under a |
| owners become acutely aware of what their | | | | seat or in a compartment isn't a bad idea. An |
| engine should sound like. Many even become old | | | | extra set of light bulbs for the lights, tape to |
| pros at fixing minor problems, such as engine | | | | repair seats and floatation devices and so on are |
| flooding. | | | | also smart to have on hand. |
| Lights: Even a daytime trip can turn into a | | | | Boating is a great pastime, but it does come with |
| nighttime excursion when something goes wrong, | | | | some responsibilities. Making sure boat parts are in |
| so checking out these boat parts doesn't hurt. Do | | | | good working order before each trip is a great |
| a careful check of every light from the running | | | | way to make sure each trip is fun, safe and |
| lights down to the spot. | | | | memorable. |