What should you do before starting your engine for safety?

Before starting your engine, it is essential to sniff the bilge and engine compartment for fumes as a safety precaution. This step helps to detect any gas leaks or other hazardous fumes that could pose a risk of explosion or fire. By checking for fumes, you ensure that the area is safe for engine operation. If you smell fuel, it indicates a potential danger, and you should take immediate action to identify and address the leak before proceeding.

Checking the fuel gauge, testing navigation lights, and ensuring the boat is secured to the dock are all important steps in boat preparation but do not directly address immediate safety concerns related to the operation of the engine. While having adequate fuel, functional lights, and secure mooring are vital for safe boating, detecting harmful fumes is critical to preventing dangerous situations when starting the engine.