Its that time of year when things begin to slow down a bit. The holidays are just about over, the boatyard is filled to the brink with shrink-wrapped splendor and I begin to get into a winter funk as I wait patiently for Memorial Day weekend. Until then, there are some things we need to do to make sure we are good to go when the boating season returns. One area that gets overlooked way too frequently is safety related and an easy fix, if you remember. Your flare kit and some of the medications in your first aid kit have expiration dates and now is the time of year to give them a good look over and replace things as needed.

All of the flares in your kit will be marked like this one. Check those dates!

Some of the medications, like this antiseptic creme will also have expiration dates. Its time to update folks!