How often should you inspect your boat's safety equipment?

Inspecting your boat's safety equipment before each trip is crucial for ensuring the safety of everyone on board. Each trip presents varying conditions and potential hazards, so verifying that safety gear is functioning properly can make a significant difference in emergency situations. This routine check can include life jackets, fire extinguishers, communication devices, and other essential safety gear, ensuring that all items are in good condition and readily accessible.

While inspecting equipment at the beginning of the season is important for establishing a baseline of safety gear, it doesn't account for wear and tear or changes that may occur over time or with use. Monthly inspections might not capture potential issues right before a specific trip. Additionally, only checking equipment when it appears damaged could lead to serious risks if something fails when needed the most. Regular inspections before each outing are thus the best practice to maintain a safe boating experience.