News and Information

Spring Boating Safety: What Changes After a Long Winter

After months of cold weather, and shorter days, the, spring boating season is a welcome back to the water. So whether your boat was stored indoors, or outdoors before you leave the dock for the first time this season, it’s important that you recognize that conditions, equipment, and even your own skills may have changed during the off season months. America’s Boating Club | United States Power Squadrons will walk you through everything you need to know to have a safe boating season.

Cold Water Is Still a Serious Risk

Even though the air temperatures feel milder, the water temperatures can still be cold even in the spring. Cold water shock may even occur within seconds of entering the water, making it hard to breathe or swim. Here are some spring safety tips related to the water temperature:

Check the water temperature before entering
Always wear a properly fitted life jacket
Dress in layers if the temperature is still low
Avoid unnecessary risks and keep passengers informed about cold-water safety

Post-Winter Boat Check

Boats that have been stored or unused during the winter months may develop issues that aren’t always obvious. Batteries can lose charge, fuel can degrade, hoses crack, and electrical connections will corrode.

Before launching check these main elements:

Inspect hull, propeller, and through-hull fittings for any damage
Check fuel lines, belts, hoses, and clamps
Test the battery, lights, bilge pump, horn, and other electronics
Confirm navigation lights are working correctly
Inspect the boat trailer for tire condition, inflation pressures, lighting, and bearing condition, and that the supports are not damaged or rotted.

A thorough preseason inspection can prevent potential breakdowns and emergencies out on the water.

How Long Can Gas Sit in a Boat Before It Goes Bad?

If your boat has been sitting for a while unused, you may be wondering how long gas can sit in a boat before it goes bad. Fuel issues are one of the common causes of early spring season breakdowns. Gasoline begins to degrade faster than many boaters realize, especially in environments where moisture is common.

Here are some general guidelines:

Ethanol-blended fuel (most common): Starts to degrade in as little as 30-60 days without stabilization.
Non-ethanol fuel: Can last 3-6 months under ideal conditions.
Fuel treated with a stabilizer: Can remain usable for up to 12 months depending on the conditions you are storing your boat in.

Over time, degraded fuel can lead to hard starting, rough idling, clogged fuel filters, and ultimately engine damage.

Before launching in the spring do the following:

Inspect fuel for discoloration or sour odor
Replace old or questionable fuel if necessary
Change fuel filters and check fuel lines for any cracking or softness
Consider adding fresh fuel or a marine-grade fuel stabilizer
Check engine oil, spark plugs, air filer, and lower unit or transmission lubrication
Check that throttle, shift and steering controls operate smoothly and correctly

Addressing issues before you leave the dock will save you time, money, and frustration. Leading to a safer boating season.

Safety Gear May Be Outdated or Missing

Over the winter, safety equipment on board your vessel can become expired, damaged, or even misplaced.

Tips before leaving the dock:

Check expiration dates on flares and fire extinguishers

Over the winter, safety equipment can expire, become damaged, or be misplaced.

Be sure to:

Check expiration dates on flares and fire extinguishers.
Inspect life jackets for wear, mildew, or broken straps.
Confirm that your first-aid kit is stocked and dry.
Ensure your throwable flotation device is immediately accessible.

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your onboard safety inventory.

Navigation Conditions May Change

Winter storms and shifting waterways may alter familiar routes. Buoys can sometimes move or go missing, channels can be shoaled, and debris such as logs or tree branches are common.

Stay alert by:

Updating charts and electronic navigation systems
Reducing speed in unfamiliar waters
Keeping a sharp lookout or assigning a spotter if possible

Follow the basic navigation rules and local regulations to stay safe when conditions change.

Skills and Awareness Need a Refresh

After a long break from boating, even experienced boaters can be a little rusty. Reaction times, docking confidence, and emergency response skills may fade without consistent practice.

Get back into form quick:

Review boating safety rules and right-of-way guidelines
Practice slow maneuvering and docking
Take a refresher boating safety course to help build your confidence again

America’s Boating Club | United States Power Squadrons boating safety education courses, classes, and seminars for any season.

Start the Season the Right Way

Boating in the spring can be very exciting, but it does require extra awareness and preparation. Cold water, winter-worn equipment, changing waterways, and unpredictable weather conditioning are all early-season safety considerations boaters must think of.

By inspecting your vessel, updating safety gear, refreshing your skills, and staying alert for weather changes, you will be ready for a safer and more enjoyable boating season.

For more boating safety tips, education, and community, connect with America’s Boating Club today and make every voyage a safe and more confident experience.

Become a member of a local squadron today!