Before you start
Gather the appropriate supplies and review the specific equipment manual.
- Vessel safety inventory
- Expiry-date log
- Crew checklist
Step-by-step instructions
Match gear to the voyage
Review flag-state, local and race rules if applicable, crew size and rescue distance.
Inspect personal equipment
Confirm appropriately fitted PFDs, tethers, jacklines and weather protection are serviceable.
Check communications and signaling
Inspect VHF/DSC setup, EPIRB or PLB registration and battery expiry, flares and backups.
Review emergency systems
Check liferaft servicing, fire extinguishers, bilge pumps and abandon-ship supplies where carried.
Brief everyone
Walk crew through man-overboard, flooding, fire and distress-call procedures.
Safety note
Test electronic distress beacons only in their manufacturer-authorized test mode. A real activation can trigger emergency response.
Key takeaway
Safety gear matters only when it works and crew know how to use it.
Keep this job on your maintenance schedule
Save the topic as a maintenance task, choose a due date or engine-hour target, and record future service. Free and stored on your device.
Add to my maintenance plannerThis guide is for general education. Follow your equipment manufacturer’s instructions, current navigation guidance and applicable marine safety standards. When uncertain, use a qualified marine professional.