What must all boat operators do prior to setting out for the day?

Conducting a pre-departure safety check of the vessel is essential for ensuring the safety of both the operator and the passengers on board. This check typically includes inspecting life jackets, verifying the presence of safety equipment like flares and fire extinguishers, ensuring that the navigation lights function properly, and checking the overall condition of the boat. By doing this, boat operators can identify any potential issues before leaving the dock, reducing the risk of accidents or emergencies on the water.

While gathering passengers and belongings, ensuring petrol tanks are full, and verifying the weather forecast are important considerations, they do not directly relate to assessing the safety condition of the vessel itself. The safety check is a foundational step in responsible boating, setting the stage for a safe and enjoyable outing.