Fishing Forum

Full Version: Delaware F&W Offers Boating Launch Tips
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The Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section and the Office of Boating Safety encourages boaters to make sure their vessel is ready for a trouble-free day enjoying Delaware's waterways by performing a pre-departure check. Before leaving home, you should have:

"¢ All current required licenses and registrations, including boat registration, boating safety certificate, boat ramp certificate and fishing license(s);

"¢ Enough life jackets for everyone on board, including children, who are required to wear them; for vessels 16 feet or more in length, a throwable life preserver is also required;<br />
"¢ Checked the local weather forecast;<br />
"¢ Left a float plan with a friend, family member or local marina;<br />
"¢ Checked for working navigation lights, steering and throttle controls;<br />
"¢ Checked oil, fuel and fluid levels;<br />
"¢ Checked for fuel leaks and hose clamps and connections;<br />
"¢ Drained all water from the engine compartment, replaced and secured the bilge plug;<br />
"¢ A fully charged engine battery and fire extinguishers; and<br />
"¢ Emergency flares and a fully charged cell phone or marine radio.

For more information on boating safety, pick up a copy of the Handbook of Delaware Boating Laws and Responsibilities at the DNREC licensing desk, or visit Delaware_Boating_Safety on the DNREC website.