The first thing I do after a break from the water is to make sure my wetsuit still fits properly. There is nothing worse than wanting to go sailing and realising you cant get your wetsuit on. Over lock down many of us have fought hard to keep the weight down, but there is always that chance your wet suit may have shrunk!

Next I thoroughly check my boat over.  Inspect all the blocks and pulleys to make sure they work properly and if they dont replace them straight away.  You dont want them to break when you are sailing, as that can leave you in a whole world of bother.

Check all the rivets and screws, making sure they are not loose.  If they are then tighten them.  Also, check for rust on anything metal.  If there is rust treat it immediately or replace the part.  Pay particular attention to the mast and spars.  If anything is starting to corrode then carry out repair work as you definitely dont want your mast or boom to snap when you are sailing or racing (especially if you are in the lead).

Make sure you have no leaks. One of my favourite ways to check is to get a bucket of water with some washing up liquid in it. Then grab a sponge and wash it all over your boat, especially where there are joints and screws. To carry out the test, grab a pump, put it in the bung hole and then gently pump to a light pressure (dont over pump it as you could cause yourself new problems) and if you see any bubbles forming then you have a hole.  Often this can be simply repaired with some gel coat (if you have a fibreglass boat).

If you have any chips on your hull, rudder or dagger board fix them with a bit of gel coat as well.  A smooth hull is a fast hull.

Finally, I make sure none of my ropes are frayed.

This basic walk round, spending time checking and maintaining your dinghy will help to avoid breakages whilst out on the water.