Sail Through the 2026 Boating License Test – Anchor Your Success and Navigate with Confidence!

When fueling an outboard boat with a portable tank, placing the tank on the dock or shore to fill it is the safest approach. This practice minimizes the risk of spills that could occur if the tank were left in the boat, which would make it difficult to prevent fuel from splashing onto the boat's surface or into the water. Fuels can be hazardous to both the environment and safety, so taking this precaution aligns with best practices for handling fuel.

Additionally, filling the tank on a stable surface like a dock or shore enhances control and reduces the likelihood of accidental spillage. This method also allows for better visibility and more secure handling of the fueling equipment.

In contrast, filling the tank while it's in the boat can create a risk of spills onto the boat or into the water. While using a funnel can help minimize spills, it does not address the foundational issue of managing the fuel in a safe location. Ensuring the engine is off is crucial for safety but does not directly relate to the best practice of where to fuel the tank.