What should you do before fueling your boat?

Turning off the engine and opening all windows before fueling your boat is crucial for safety. When you fuel a boat, there is a risk of flammable vapors accumulating, which could ignite if the engine is running. Starting the engine while fueling can lead to explosions due to the fumes. By ensuring the engine is off, you eliminate a potential ignition source.

Opening the windows helps to improve ventilation within the boat, allowing any flammable vapors that may have accumulated to disperse. This step is essential in reducing the risk of fire. Proper ventilation is a key safety measure whether you're on the water or at a dock.

The other choices are less suitable for safe fueling practices. Keeping the engine running poses a significant safety hazard, as mentioned. Checking the fuel gauge is a good practice for managing fuel levels but does not directly address safety during the fueling process. Closing all openings could potentially restrict airflow and trap vapors, creating a dangerous situation, rather than enhancing safety by allowing for ventilation.