How often should a marine technician check the safety equipment aboard?

The recommendation to check safety equipment at the beginning of each boating season and after any major modifications is driven by the need to ensure that all safety gear is functional and in compliance with standards at critical times. At the start of the season, a thorough inspection is essential to confirm that all equipment, such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, and first-aid kits, is in good working order after being stored away during the off-season. Additionally, if any major modifications are made to the boat, it's crucial to reassess the safety equipment as changes could affect safety protocols or necessitate different requirements for safety gear.

This proactive approach helps to prevent potential issues that could arise if safety equipment is not properly maintained or updated. Relying solely on periodic checks, such as annually during winter storage or just before long trips, might leave gaps in safety assurance, especially since equipment can deteriorate or become outdated during periods of non-use or change. Hence, frequent inspections are key to maintaining marine safety.