How’s that fuel gauge?

Did you know that around six percent of Coastguard callouts annually are related to fuel problems. Here are some pointers to ensure you’re not the cause of a callout.

Remember that fuel can go stale (meaning it doesn’t burn as well). Petrol only has a shelf life of about three to four months in a tank (up to a year with a stabiliser additive) and diesel can suffer from bacteria that can grow in the fuel and play havoc with filters and the fuel system. Stale fuel should be drained.

Keep up with the times. That $50 you used to put in the tank to get to your favourite fishing spot and back now doesn’t go as far!

And, make sure your fuel hasn’t gone missing - sadly, high fuel prices make full tanks tempting targets for thieves. Check out the boaties best mate website for more fuel-related advice.