What Mandatory Safety Equipment Do I Need On My Boat?
Whether you're a relaxed sailor or prefer boat racing, every boat requires necessary safety equipment for life on the water.
Before you take your boat to the sea, here are the essential safety tools and equipment to keep in your kit.
Life jackets
Even if you're the only one who tends to ride your boat, you never know when you'll want to take someone out on the water. Keep a few lifejackets in storage in a couple different sizes to keep any potential seafarer safe. Life jackets and/or other personal flotation devices are mandatory on the water.
Whistle
This is required if you own a vessel more than 65.6 feet in length, but any boat on the water should utilize a bell or whistle. Ensure you get the proper whistle that's okayed by the U.S. Coast Guard; they must be heard up to one nautical mile.
Distress signals
Bright distress signals are essential for a boat in need, especially at night when it's difficult to see waving, flags, or other apparent signs of distress. Get a flare that burns for at least three days and nights so any passing boats can see you're in trouble. You should also keep a flashlight with extra batteries, a charged cell phone, and a radio to signal in, though these are not required.
A fire extinguisher
Fire can't possibly be a threat when you're surrounded by water, right?
Actually, yes. Fires on boats can occur in the engine, the electrical components, and in your cheap portable grill. Keep in mind that the fire extinguisher must be approved by the Coast Guard and kept in an easily accessible location.
Whether you're building a custom boat or renting a boat, these are just some of the necessary tools and equipment you should bring on your vessel. In 2017, an amazing 2.65 million people planned to buy a boat before 2018. Raising awareness on boating safety is essential for new and old boat owners alike.
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