What action should you take with the vessel's drain plug before launching?

Before launching a vessel, it is essential to check that the drain plug is securely in place. This action is crucial for preventing water from entering the vessel while it is being transported on land and ensuring that the boat maintains buoyancy once launched.

If the drain plug is not in place or is loose, water will flow into the boat, leading to potential capsizing or sinking. This step is an important part of pre-launch safety checks, helping to ensure a safe experience on the water. Therefore, confirming that the drain plug is in its proper position is a fundamental practice for all boaters.

The other options do not align with safe boating practices; for instance, removing the drain plug or leaving it loose would increase the risk of water intrusion, while replacing it with a new one is unnecessary if the existing one is functional.