Summer might appear to many as halcyon days by the beach, or pottering on their boats. But, to a few, lack of knowledge of safety measures could mean their summer ends abruptly in tragedy. During the last few weeks, the local lifeboats have been busy towing craft back to their moorings after breaking down. The Coastguards have also been delivering safety advice to these mariners. Many of the breakdowns have occurred due to bad maintenance or even no maintenance. To these ends, the following should be adhered to: If your vessel has been off the water since last summer a full service is advised and always check the following before taking to the water: Fuel system: Have the fuel pipes corroded or perished? Are there signs of water in the fuel system? (drain tanks of water and check the fuel connections for leaks). Are the connections all tight, waterproof and the correct type for the engine? Is the fuel ok (two-stroke fuel when mixed deteriorates quickly when not used). Is the oil/ petrol mix correct? Battery: Does it need charging? Are the terminals free of corrosion? Are the connections correct and tight? Is the battery secure in the boat? Hull: Ensure hull is sound and free from leakage; wooden boats - ensure hull planking has re- expanded if boat was out of the water for the winter period; rowing boats - are the oars and rowlocks sound? Ensure the transom is sound before attaching the engine (one rescue recently, the motor was fixed to the transom - the transom crumbled and both items fell into the sea).
