Boat Safety Equipment Checklist

Proper safety equipment turns emergencies from disasters into manageable situations. Understanding what gear is required, what’s recommended, and how to use it prepares you for the unexpected challenges that can occur on the water.

Quick Answer: Required equipment includes life jackets for all aboard, fire extinguishers, visual distress signals, and sound-producing devices. Additional recommended gear includes first aid kit, VHF radio, anchor and line, flashlight, and emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) for offshore operation.

Life Jackets

Coast Guard Requirements

Federal regulations require one wearable life jacket for each person aboard, plus a throwable device for boats 16 feet and longer. Life jackets must be Coast Guard approved, in good condition, and appropriately sized for the intended wearer.

Children’s life jackets must fit properly; adult jackets don’t substitute regardless of availability. Check sizing requirements before departing with young passengers.

Types of Life Jackets

Type I offshore life jackets provide the most buoyancy and are designed to turn unconscious wearers face up. These bulky devices are required on commercial vessels and recommended for offshore recreational boating.

Type II near-shore vests offer good buoyancy in a more comfortable design. These general-purpose jackets suit most recreational boating in protected waters.

Type III flotation aids prioritize comfort and mobility. Popular for fishing and water sports, these vests provide adequate buoyancy for conscious wearers in calm conditions.

Type V special-use devices include inflatable life jackets and work vests with specific usage requirements. Inflatable models must be worn to count toward Coast Guard requirements.

Inflatable Life Jackets

Modern inflatable jackets provide excellent buoyancy with minimal bulk when not activated. Automatic models inflate upon immersion; manual models require activation. Inspect inflation mechanisms and replace CO2 cartridges according to manufacturer schedules.

Fire Extinguishers

Requirements

Boats with enclosed engine compartments, enclosed living spaces, or permanently installed fuel tanks must carry Coast Guard approved fire extinguishers. The number required depends on boat length; check regulations for your specific vessel.

Types and Sizes

B-I extinguishers contain at least 2 pounds of dry chemical, suitable for small enclosed spaces. B-II extinguishers hold at least 10 pounds, required on larger vessels or as alternates to multiple B-I units.

Mount extinguishers in accessible locations away from likely fire sources. The engine compartment and galley are common fire origins; don’t locate extinguishers where fires might block access.

Maintenance

Inspect extinguishers monthly, checking pressure gauges and physical condition. Shake dry chemical extinguishers periodically to prevent powder packing. Replace or service extinguishers according to manufacturer recommendations, typically every 5-12 years.

Visual Distress Signals

Requirements

Boats operating on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, or territorial seas must carry visual distress signals. Options include pyrotechnic devices (flares, rockets) or non-pyrotechnic devices (orange distress flag, electric distress light).

Pyrotechnic Signals

Pyrotechnic signals must be Coast Guard approved and not expired. Common combinations include three hand-held flares and three aerial flares, or an orange smoke signal with night signals.

Check expiration dates annually and replace expired signals. Dispose of expired pyrotechnics safely; contact local authorities for proper disposal options.

Non-Pyrotechnic Options

Orange distress flags and electric distress lights provide reusable alternatives to pyrotechnics. While they never expire, these devices may be less visible than flares in some conditions.

Sound Producing Devices

Requirements

Boats under 40 feet must carry some means of making an efficient sound signal. Boats 40 feet and longer require both a whistle (or horn) and a bell.

Options

Air horns, whistles, and electronic horns all satisfy requirements. Carry backup devices; sound signals are crucial for fog conditions and collision avoidance.

Recommended Additional Equipment

VHF Radio

While not required for recreational boats, VHF radio provides essential communication for emergencies and routine operations. Digital Selective Calling equipped radios can transmit distress signals with GPS position automatically.

First Aid Kit

Stock comprehensive first aid supplies appropriate for your cruising area and duration. Include seasickness medication, sunscreen, and any prescription medications crew members require.

Anchor and Line

Adequate ground tackle prevents drifting onto hazards when engines fail. Size anchors for your boat and conditions; carry sufficient rode for your cruising depths.

Navigation Lights

Proper navigation lights are required between sunset and sunrise and in reduced visibility. Test lights regularly and carry spare bulbs.

EPIRB/PLB

Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons transmit distress signals to search and rescue authorities worldwide. These devices are invaluable for offshore operation; Personal Locator Beacons provide similar protection in smaller, personal-carry packages.

Safety Briefings

Brief all passengers on safety equipment locations and usage before departing. Show guests where life jackets are stored, how to operate VHF radio, and what to do in emergencies. This preparation can save lives when situations develop rapidly.