Preparing for spring (From Boating Cornwall)

Preparing for spring

5:18pm Monday 1st February 2010

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Boat owners are being reminded to carry out a number of simple and straightforward checks before they get back on the water, following the winter lay-up period.

The increased risk of theft and damage associated with the economic climate, coupled with the sub zero temperatures this year are likely to have added to the risk.

Carrying out a number of simple pre-launch checks, and ensuring there is good communication with the yard or launching company can significantly help reduce the risk of potential accidents, breakdowns or worse still, sinking. These types of checks are particularly important after a harsh winter where skin fittings, pipes, engines and heaters may have been damaged or dislodged by ice.

To avoid launch and pre-season problems: have a yearly pre-season machinery maintenance check, by a boat engineer agree a launch date in advance and arrange access to boat for yard if you cannot be there in person do not start engines until all basic checks have been completed, including opening cooling water sea cocks check fuel or gas lines and cables have not been trapped whilst stowing gear do not assume anything will be checked or replaced, if in doubt ask check all hoses, skin fittings, through hull fittings & hose clips check, and tape rigging split pins or securing bolts ensure distress flares & lifejackets are still in date and adequate for your boat check sails for signs of vermin damage or rot ensure navigation equipment is on board, up to date and working Common problems include: flooring, steps and handles not being properly re-attached after servicing, which can lead to injury forgetting to return crucial safety and navigation equipment to the boat through hull fittings not being replaced or hoses not properly re-connected, which can lead to sinking through gradual ingress of water rigging not securely attached after the mast is put in or securing pins not fastened or taped over for security, potentially leading to a dismasting not checking engines are fully re-commissioned, which can let you down at a crucial moment or be damaged when started underwater gear or log may be damaged on slings or strops when lifted

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