The weather is starting to warm, which means boating season is on the horizon! You’re probably starting to plan where you’ll be taking your boat and what you’ll be doing. While it’s time to plan your summer fun, it’s also important to take time and ensure your safety measures are fully stocked and prepared. Don’t wait until you’re about to get on the water to double-check that you have everything you need for a fun and safe boating season. In this blog, we’ll dive into what safety measures you should have stocked on your craft for an emergency!
Required Safety Equipment
Let’s start with the basics. Per the US Coast Guard guidelines, the items below are required safety measures for recreational boaters. If you’re taking a boat out on the water for the first time this boating season or need a refresher, review some more detailed safety information from the Coast Guard!
Life Jackets (PFDs): One wearable, properly fitted, Type I, II, III, or V life jacket must be available for each person on board.
Throwable Device: Boats 16 feet or longer require at least one Type IV throwable device (cushion or ring).
Fire Extinguisher: Required on boats with enclosed fuel/engine compartments.
Visual Distress Signals: A combination of daytime and nighttime visual signals such as flares, smoke signals, or electronic distress lights are required for boats over 16 feet, with only daytime signals required for smaller boats.
Sound-Producing Device: A horn, whistle, or bell is necessary for signaling in low visibility or emergencies.
Navigation Lights: Required for operation between sunset and sunrise.
Watch this video to understand the different types of life jackets and other required safety gear:
Essential Safety Gear for Every Trip
With the basics covered, there are still a lot of essential items you should have on your craft to ensure that you and your passengers are prepared for anything that could go wrong on the water.
Communication Device: A VHF radio is essential for contacting the Coast Guard, while a charged cell phone in a waterproof case is a crucial backup. If you’re opting for a phone for emergencies, keep power banks on deck to ensure you’ll have enough battery to contact help.
Navigation Tools: GPS, marine charts, or a magnetic compass.
Emergency Supplies: A waterproof flashlight, emergency food/water, tool kit, and a first aid kit are essential emergency supplies.
Anchor and Line: Necessary to hold your position in an emergency.
Bilge Pump or Bailer: A bucket or manual pump to remove water.
Knife: A sharp knife to cut fouled lines or ropes.
Optional But Recommended Gear
By this point, you really have your bases covered, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry! While the safety items below are optional, they’re still recommended to ensure that your boat is stocked with all of the safety items you could need in case of an emergency.
EPIRB or PLB: Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons or Personal Locator Beacons transmit satellite signals for rescue.
Ditch Bag: A waterproof, buoyant, and brightly colored bag packed with essential survival gear, designed to be quickly taken if you must abandon your vessel.
Oars/Paddles: Depending on the size of your vessel, emergency paddles or oars can be used to help manually maneuver.
Man Overboard Kit: Equipment for rescuing someone from the water.
No one hopes they’ll ever experience an emergency out on the water, but the best way to keep you and your passengers safe is to be prepared every time you get out on the water. Spend your time preparing now so that come boating season, you can relax on the water with peace of mind!