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Green Boating Tips for Earth Day in Oregon, Washington

With Earth Day fast approaching, we here at Fox Insurance Agency thought it would be a good time to talk about preventative measures you can take to avoid harming the environment, in addition to carrying an insurance policy that provides coverage for fuel spills and pollution liability.

  • Maintain a clean bilge – don’t pump oily water overboard
  • Clean safely – Use detergent sparingly. Environmentally responsible boat cleaning products can be found at www.greenseal.org
  • Observe all local (including Portland and Beaverton) and federal sewage regulations for local waterways
  • For people boating at sea, chart your course responsibly – prevent damage to sensitive sea habitats and reduce fuel waste due to misdirection
  • Stow your trash – take your garbage home, including fishing line, cigarettes and other disposable items
  • Recycle your waste – properly dispose your batteries and other waste materials
  • Carry a spill kit
  • Report pollution
  • Routine maintenance – keep up with the maintenance of your boat, just like you do with your car

Boat Maintenance

Proper maintenance can extend the life of your boat, reduce the need for costly repairs, and help ensure the safety of your passengers in Oregon and Washington, or elsewhere.

Cleaning & Care

Wash your boat regularly to prevent the long-term effects of environmental wear and tear. Routine waxing and the use of an anti-fouling paint can also help protect your boat from the elements. Consider using environmentally-safe products whenever possible!

Consider a Watercraft Cover

Invest in a cover to keep your boat clean and free from dirt, water, falling leaves and bird droppings, all of which cause damage if left unchecked. A cover can also prevent UV rays from breaking down hoses, and fading carpets and upholstery.

Routine Inspection

Proper boat maintenance means being actively involved in, and attuned to, all aspects of your watercraft. Keep an eye on everything from loose fittings, to fraying ropes, to any other areas of your watercraft that may need special attention or replacement. Many times, damages incurred to a boat could easily have been prevented by following a preventative boat maintenance routine. You can also have a professional boat inspection.

Battery Care

Depending on the type of battery your boat uses, check to ensure that it is properly charged and has the correct fluid levels. Always keep your battery clean, as dampness and dirt can drain your battery.

Motor Maintenance

Flush your engine after every outing, and check everything from your fuel tanks to the clamps on your fuel line for rust, damage or corrosion. Also, check your oil for correct levels, proper filtration, and cleanliness. Finally, remember to keep an eye on your engine’s cooling system to make sure it’s functioning correctly.

Bilge Pumps

A crucial aspect of boat maintenance is ensuring that your bilge pump is functioning properly. There’s not much that can cause more irreparable damage to a boat than having it sink. In the event that you need to use your pump, you’ll want to make sure that your battery system contains enough power to run the pump for a prolonged period of time.

Electrical Components

Many boating failures occur as a result of corroded electrical systems, so keeping electrical components dry should be a regular part of your watercraft maintenance routine. Electrical fittings can be protected with a water-repellent, non-conductive grease or corrosion inhibitor.

Click the following for more information on boat insurance coverage or click the following to get a boating insurance quote, or please contact Fox Insurance Agency at 503-277-2300.