Final answer:
After fueling your boat, ventilate the bilge and enclosed areas, check for leaks or odors, and dispose of any waste properly to ensure safety and environmental protection.
Step-by-step explanation:
After fueling your boat and before starting the engine, it is essential to take certain steps to ensure safety and environmental protection. First, you should ventilate the bilge and other enclosed areas to remove any fuel vapors. This is usually done by running the blower for at least four minutes before starting your engine. Next, check for fuel leaks or odors and address any issues immediately.
Additionally, it's important to be environmentally conscious by preventing fuel spills and properly disposing of any waste. Actions such as removing all visible plants, animals, mud, and debris from your boat hull and rinsing equipment with a hard spray can help protect Maryland waters and other ecosystems.