It can be a pretty simple task to inflate an inflatable boat. However, there are a few guidelines that you need to follow to make sure that you do it right. Otherwise, you run the risk of over-inflating or under-inflating your blow up. Either of these can pose potential dangers when you are already in the water. Follow these procedures on how to inflate your boat for a safer, more satisfying ride:

1. Determine the size boat that you want to inflate. If it is to large to blow manually, then, use an air compressor or an air pump. If you are using a small boat like those for children, then make sure that you take slow deep breaths between each blow. Do not rush in inflating it. As they say, haste makes waste. Observe proper pacing. Doing it too fast can deprive your brain of oxygen and thus cause dizziness or even fainting. Also, make sure that the port to which you will put in your mouth is thoroughly cleaned so that you don't transfer germs into your mouth. Disinfect the openings with alcohol first before you let it inside your mouth. Again, blowing air into it is only appropriate for small children's boats.

2. For larger boats get an air compressor. Inspect the overall appearance of the boat first. Make sure that there are no visible damages, holes or torn parts otherwise, you will just be wasting your time and effort in inflating your inflatable boat.

3. Open all the valves of the boat. Set aside the covers and make sure that you can return it to where they should be after inflating.

4. Choose a valve to begin. Working on it on a clockwise direction as you go around all the valves in the boat helps you not to miss any opening. Fill the each chamber with the right amount of air. Over filling one chamber affects the balance and stability of the boat in water so make sure that air is evenly distributed to all the chambers.

5. After filling all the chambers with the right amount of air, recheck the boat by going around it again, this time, in a counter-clockwise direction. Make sure that each chamber is filled evenly with air when you inflate your inflatable boat.

6. After inflating the main chambers, inflate the thwarts next. If some chambers need more air do not hesitate to add. Continue inflating until the boat has attained a balanced form. Make sure that the covers for each port are properly attached.

7. When all is set, take your boat to the water and connect the oars. A spare set of oars should be kept in the boat for safety purposes.

After using the boat, do not forget to deflate it especially if it won't be used for a long time. This protects the boat from getting ripped or trampled over by your family members or animals at home. Before storing your boat, make sure that it is completely dry or you'll risk damaging it when molds or mildew collect at the seams.