Developing a written checklist

Jstew

I was a pilot at one time. I’m a big believer in following a written checklist for safety sake. I’d be interested to hear if any of you have developed your own checklist for various boating activities. For example leaving the dock, or pulling up anchor after a day on the hook in a cove, etc.   I’m on an EX370 if that makes a difference. 

LaRea

I keep a log book that serves as my checklist.  I fill it out every time I get underway.  Date, time, destination, fuel, engine hours, several other details.  

A good checklist is a list of mental triggers.  When I write down how much fuel I have, I'm not just going through the motions ... it's my trigger to think about whether I have enough fuel for the voyage.  When I write down weather conditions, it's my trigger to think about how weather might affect me.  

LaRea

I have another checklist:  six, two, one.  Before I walk away from the boat after docking, I force myself to stop and count out loud:  six dock lines, two fenders, one power cord.  Again, triggers to think ... dock lines and fenders okay?  Power connected and turned on?  

Jstew

All good stuff. I’m going to make several detailed lists, just bc there seems to be so many details to take care of.  Even something as simple as making sure the swim ladder is up before leaving an anchorage. 😎

Stodge

West Marine has float plan forms and a checklist form at https://www.westmarine.com/WestAdvisor/Safe-Boating-Checklist

Ian

The VesselView Mobile app has checklists in it too and I plan to look into these more now I have that all up and running.

Stodge

The Coast Guard app has a float plan button.  There are other helpful functions in it as well.