Montana Pre-Departure Checklist

Required by Law	Item on Checklist
	A U.S. Coast Guard–approved, wearable life jacket properly sized and in good condition for each person on board.
	Approved, fully charged fire extinguisher(s) for motorboats
	Paddles or oars
	The vessel’s Certificate of Number
	Anchor and anchor line
	Tool kit and spare parts
	Any needed charts, tide tables, current tables, navigation equipment
	Boat shoes on all deck hands
	Full fuel tank(s)
	Bell, whistle, or horn, as required
	Working lights as required
	At least one working flashlight
	Completed safety check for leaks; boat’s plug in
	Fuel lines and tank checked for leaks
	Suitable weather and water conditions
	Propeller in good condition with lower unit free of weeds and debris
	Passengers seated and briefed on emergency procedures; their PFDs checked for fit
	Make your boating plans known by a responsible person ashore