- Horn or Whistle (Freon style horn is acceptable)
- One Lifejacket for Each Person on Board (proper size)
- Approved Throwable Device (cushion, ring, horseshoe style)
- Fire Extinguisher - Two (2) are required for boats over 26 feet
- Flare Kit - up to date. Must meet day and night requirements (a distress flag is acceptable as a daylight signal device)
- Running Lights in working order and proper configuration for your size boat
- Paddle for Boats 16 ft. and under
- Boat Registration Card must be on board
Be sure to Tell Your Crew Where Safety Equipment is Stored
Additional Suggested Equipment
- At least twice the flares and smoke devices that come in the kits
- Mirror for signaling (your ski mirror can be used)
- Hand held compass
- Flashlight (check the batteries
- More than one fire extinguisher (how much is your boat worth?)
- Good First Aid Kit
- Emergency Positioning Indicator Beacon (EPIRB)
- Hand Held VHF radio
- As much anchor line as you can carry
- Spare Anchor
- Spare Prop
- Spare fuel filters and wrench to fit
- Spare boat keys on a float
- Sunscreen - Extra Sunglasses are nice to have onboard
- Jumper cables
- Dive mask and fins (if you have to clear your prop)
- Dive Flag
- Loran or G.P.S. (instruct your mate how to operate too)
- Sea Anchor (a bucket with holes punched will do in a pinch)
- Full tool kit (complete with spare fuses & nuts and bolts)
- Silver Yachting Tape (aka duct tape)
- Heavy wire cutting tool (in case you must cut a hook shaft)
- At least one gallon of fresh water for emergencies
Boat safety courses are offered by the Power Squadron as well as the C.G. Auxillary. Usually you get a discount on your boat insurance upon completion of one of these courses.
Consult your local Coast Guard Office for current requirements. Requirements subject to change.
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