Avoid 5 boat winterizing mistakes

1. Failure to winterize the engine: Freezing temperatures occur in all 50 states where boaters are most likely to have freeze-related damage to engine blocks.

2. Failure to drain water from sea strainer: The seawater strainer must be winterized or residual water could freeze and rupture the watertight seal.

3. Failure to close seacocks: For boats left in the water, leaving seacocks open over the winter is like going on extended vacation without locking the house.

4. Clogged petcocks: Engine cooling system petcocks clogged by rust or other debris can prevent water from fully draining.

5. Using bimini covers as winter storage covers: A cover that protects the crew from the sun does a lousy job protecting the boat from freezing rain and snow.