1. Prevent fuel spills by installing a device to prevent overboard discharges from your tank vent and keep a supply of oil absorbant rags on board for spill cleanup of oil and fuel. Even small spills of oil can contaminate a large volume of water.
2. Properly dispose of used oil and filters - facilities are available to handle these elements which are toxic to the marine environment. In the US call 1 800 CLEANUP, and in Canada call 1 800-667-4321 for the nearest disposal facility.
3. Never mix wastes, or pour hazardous wastes down drains, on the ground or into surface waters.
4. Use green products or non-toxic cleaners - many cleaning products contain chemicals that are toxic to aquatic ecosystems. Try using natural cleaners. For example:
For fiberglass stains - Try making a paste of baking soda and water. Use a sponge or soft cloth and GENTLY rub the mix into the stain. Baking soda is abrasive, so use with care. Use a light touch of lemon or lime juice as a final wipe-down for a shiny, fresh-smelling finish.
For windows and mirrors - mix vinegar, lemon juice and warm water. Fill a spray bottle with the solution. Spray it on your windows and wipe with a lint-free cloth that doesn’t lint up.
For chrome - use apple cider vinegar on a soft cotton cloth to rub it clean and finish with a fresh cloth using a spit of baby oil giving it a bright shine.
For brass or copper - Mix baking soda and white vinegar together to create a paste. Then, rub the paste into the copper or brass object that you wish to clean. Rinse, and buff with a dry cloth.
For stainless steel - clean with a cloth dampened with undiluted white vinegar.
For aluminum - using a soft cloth, clean with a solution of cream of tartar and water.
For plastic surfaces - use a mixture of one part white vinegar and two parts warm water.
For decks - use a mixture of one part white vinegar and eight parts warm water.
For interior wood - Mix equal parts of lemon juice and olive oil. Apply a small amount to a cloth, and rub onto the furniture in long, even strokes.
5. Limit dock side hull cleaning to the above water surface area only and rinse your boat with fresh water.
Yarmouth Boat Yard & Moose Landing Marina
72 Lafayette Street, Yarmouth, ME 04096
P 207.846.9050 | F 207.847.9390 | C 207.205.3889
