Safety Gear Essentials For Boating Adventures

There are several items of safety gear that are required on a boat, and these can vary depending on the size of the vessel and the location. However, some standard safety equipment includes life jackets, fire extinguishers, visual distress signals, sound-producing devices, ventilation systems, and backfire flame arrestors.

In the US, the U.S. Coast Guard sets out the minimum requirements for safety gear, which are often added to by state-specific regulations.

Life jackets and personal flotation devices (PFDs)

Wearable PFDs must be easily accessible to all passengers on board and should be within easy reach for each person. This means they should not be stowed in bags, locked compartments, or buried under other gear. In addition, children under 13 years of age are legally required to wear a life jacket at all times while the boat is underway, and it is recommended that everyone on board does the same. This includes people being towed on water skis or wake surfers, as well as those riding personal watercraft (PWC).

There are different types of life jackets and PFDs available, including Type I, II, III, and V. Type I PFDs are designed for offshore use or rough waters, providing the most buoyancy and turning an unconscious person face-up in the water. Type II PFDs are intended for calmer waters and are ideal for activities like kayaking or fishing, while Type III PFDs are suitable for conscious wearers in calm, inland waters. Type V devices are considered "special use" and must be used in the specific circumstances they were designed for.

In addition to wearable PFDs, boats must also carry at least one throwable flotation device (Type IV). These can include ring buoys, cushions, or horseshoe buoys, and they should be readily available for use. While not a substitute for a life jacket, these devices can be thrown to someone in the water to provide extra support.

When it comes to life jackets and PFDs, it is crucial to prioritize safety and follow the relevant regulations. By doing so, you can help ensure that everyone on board stays safe and has a enjoyable boating experience.

Fire extinguishers

Fire Extinguisher Types

The US Coast Guard (USCG) requires all fire extinguishers on boats to be marine-type and Coast Guard-approved. The extinguishers are classified by a letter and number symbol, with the letter indicating the type of fire the unit is designed to extinguish. For example, a B-1 extinguisher is suitable for flammable liquid fires, while a B-II extinguisher is suitable for larger flammable liquid fires.

Fire Extinguisher Requirements by Boat Size

Vessels Less Than 16 Feet

Vessels less than 16 feet in length are required to carry at least one B-I fire extinguisher of any type. However, this requirement does not apply to outboard motorboats less than 26 feet long that are not carrying passengers for hire, provided that their construction does not permit the entrapment of explosive or flammable gases or vapors, and if fuel tanks are not permanently installed.

Vessels 16 Feet to Less Than 26 Feet

For vessels between 16 and 26 feet in length, you need to have at least one B-I fire extinguisher of any type.

Vessels 26 Feet to Less Than 40 Feet

Boats in this size range need to carry either one B-II extinguisher or two B-I extinguishers.

Vessels 40 Feet to Less Than 65 Feet

Vessels between 40 and 65 feet in length must have at least one B-II extinguisher and one B-I extinguisher, or three B-I extinguishers.

Fire Extinguisher Age and Label Requirements

It's important to ensure that your fire extinguishers are not expired and meet current label requirements. As of April 2022, the USCG issued new regulations for disposable fire extinguisher dates of manufacture and label classifications. Fire extinguishers must not be more than 12 years old, according to the date of manufacture stamped on the bottle. You can usually find the manufacture date stamped into the bottom of the bottle or near the UL label.

Vessels model year 2018 or newer must carry fire extinguishers labeled as 5-B, 10-B, or 20-B. The old labels of B-1 or B-11 are no longer acceptable. Vessels model year 2017 or older may continue to use serviceable extinguishers labeled B-1 and B-11 if they are less than 12 years old.

Additional Fire Safety Considerations

In addition to fire extinguishers, it's important to have a fire prevention plan and take steps to reduce the risk of fires on your boat. This includes regular maintenance of your engine and fuel system, proper ventilation to prevent the buildup of flammable gases, and the use of backfire flame arrestors on gasoline engines installed after April 25, 1940 (except outboard motors).

Visual distress signals

• Hand-held or aerial red flares
• Hand-held or aerial orange smoke flares
• Parachute flares or red meteor flares
• Launchers for the above signals

Non-pyrotechnic visual distress signals must carry a manufacturer's certification that they meet Coast Guard requirements. They must also be in good condition and easily accessible. Examples of non-pyrotechnic signals include:

• Orange distress flag
• Electric distress light

It is important to note that visual distress signals should only be used in a genuine emergency. Using them unnecessarily can result in serious penalties. Additionally, visual distress signals are most effective when someone is in a position to see them. Therefore, good judgment is essential when using these signals.

Sound-signalling devices

All boats are required to carry a sound-signalling device. Vessels under 39 feet (or 12 metres) in length must carry an efficient sound-producing device, such as a whistle, horn, or handheld air horn. Vessels over 39 feet are required to carry both a whistle and a bell, which should be sounded at regular intervals during periods of limited visibility.

Sound signals are required in certain situations, such as when meeting, crossing, or overtaking another vessel. They are also necessary during periods of reduced visibility and while at anchor.

In addition to whistles and horns, other devices can be used as sound-signalling equipment. These include portable or fixed horns, bells, and sirens. These devices should be capable of producing a sound that is audible for up to half a mile and lasting for four to six seconds.

It is important to note that the specific requirements for sound-signalling devices may vary depending on the state and local regulations. Therefore, it is recommended to check the requirements of the state where the boat is registered and any states that you plan to travel to.

Navigation lights

When to Use Navigation Lights:

Requirements for Different Boat Types:

The specific requirements for navigation lights vary depending on the size and type of your boat. The U.S. Coast Guard has published the "Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats," which outlines the lighting requirements for different watercraft.

For power-driven and sailing vessels less than 65.5 feet (20 meters) in length, here are the general guidelines:

• Sidelights and a stern light: If practical, a sailing vessel may exhibit sidelights (red and green) and a stern light. These lights should be displayed in sufficient time to prevent collisions.
• Electric flashlight or bright light: An alternative to the sidelights and stern light is to have an electric flashlight or other bright light on board. This can be used to signal your position and avoid collisions.
• Lantern showing a white light: Another option is to have a lighted lantern displaying a white light. This should be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collisions.
• Tricolored lantern: A tricolored lantern can be used, but not in combination with all-round green and red lights.
• All-round green and red lights: These lights can be used together but should not be used with a tricolored lantern.

Keeping Navigation Lights in Good Condition:

It is essential to maintain your navigation lights in serviceable condition. Regularly inspect and test the lights to ensure they are functioning properly and have fresh batteries or power sources. This will help ensure that your lights are reliable when you need them the most.

Additional Lighting Considerations:

In addition to the navigation lights, there are a few other lighting considerations for boat safety:

• Visual distress signals: Boats larger than 16 feet need visual distress signals for both day and nighttime use. Pyrotechnic devices, such as flares or smoke signals, and non-pyrotechnic devices, such as distress flags and electric distress signals, are required.
• Sound signaling devices: These are important to attract attention and signal intentions or positions. Portable or fixed horns, whistles, bells (for larger vessels), and other sound-generating devices are recommended or required, depending on the size of your boat.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the specific requirements for your boat type, you can ensure that your navigation lights are in compliance with safety regulations and help keep yourself and others safe on the water.

Frequently asked questions