Summer 2021 is right around the corner! Did you know that Summer officially starts Sunday, June 20th? Our boat lift remote controls company sure did and we couldn't be more excited! In preparation for summer, we've compiled a checklist for you of things to check BEFORE you get out on the water this summer, in this week's blog. Remember to get out on the water FASTER this summer, call Firstmate Controls today to ask about our new units. We can be reached at 866-570-9707.

Summer 2021: Check Your Boat Out Beforehand To Make For A Safe Boating Trip!

MAKE SURE YOU:

HAVE YOUR GAS TANK FILLED.

Check all your fuel lines. Make sure to check both your fill and vent hoses. Ensure none of your hoses have cracks or are brittle. Examine your fuel tanks, fuel pumps, and fuel pumps for possible leaks

HAVE ENOUGH LIFE JACKETS ON BOARD.

Check all your safety gear to make sure everything is still in working order. Check your life jackets. Make sure to check to see if your flares have expired or gotten wet. If you think there is any possibility that your flares are not in working condition, replace them. Checking your safety gear on board is a very important step. This could save you a ticket in the future if you make sure all your safety equipment is up to code. Nothing ruins boating fun faster than a hefty ticket.

HAVE YOUR REGISTRATION UP TO DATE.

Make sure that your boat's registration is up to date. The Missouri Department of Revenue should send you a notice if your registration is about to expire. However, you should check your registration just to make sure. If you do need to renew your registration you will need three documents. Have personal property tax documentation, such as a personal property tax receipt specific to your boat. You will also need a statement of non-assessment from your county tax assessor or collector. Lastly, you will need all necessary boat registration renewal fees. Renewal fees are based on the length of your vessel.

HAVE YOUR LIGHTS WORKING PROPERLY.

Check to make sure ALL your lights work. The time to find out that a light is not working is not when you are in the middle of the main channel after the sun goes down! Working lights are an important safety consideration when boating.

HAVE A PROP THAT IS IN WORKING ORDER.

Check for any dings that could have occurred to the prop during storage or after your last use. Ensure that cotter pins are secure. Move your shaft back and forth. If it is loose, the cutlass bearing may need to be replaced.

YOU HAVE NO PROBLEMS WITH YOUR OUTBOARD ENGINE.

Look at the rubber outdrive bellows for any cracks or dry spots. If you suspect the rubber could be damaged at all, replace them. Be sure to check the oil, power steering, and power trim oil levels. Inspect outer jackets of all controls. If there are any cracks, consider changing the cable.

Firstmate Controls Wishes You a Fun Summer Out On The Water!

We hope that you have a great time out on your boat this year. Life is too short not to make some wonderful boating memories out there with your loved ones. Do waste any time this summer. Remember, less time on your lift means more time out on the water! That's where we come in. Firstmate Controls specializes in getting you out on the water faster with our boat lift remote systems! Learn more and check out our website below.

Boat Lift Controls You Can Count On!

Firstmate Controls