What should you check before starting your engine after using the blower?

Before starting your engine after using the blower, it is crucial to check the time elapsed since you activated the blower. The blower is used to ventilate the engine compartment and remove any accumulated fuel vapors, which can pose a fire risk. Generally, it is recommended to run the blower for a minimum of four minutes to ensure that all potentially dangerous vapors have been adequately dispersed before starting the engine. Therefore, understanding the appropriate time to wait after using the blower is essential for ensuring safety.

Checking other aspects, such as weather conditions, fuel level, or propeller damage, is important for safe boating, but they do not specifically relate to the immediate safety measure of ensuring that the engine compartment is free from flammable vapors. The primary concern before starting the engine in this context is the adequate ventilation achieved through the blower, which directly influences safety during ignition.