Safe boating practices should begin well before the vessel is launched. Consider the following information to help you anticipate unforeseen events and enable crew, family and guests to return home safely.
Federal, state, and local requirements
Federal boating safety requirements are an excellent starting point when considering your needs, but you’ll also want to consider additional items that should be onboard your boat at all times, such as an EPIRB, life raft, first aid kit, and navigational charts. View the guide to federal boating regulations for more information, but keep in mind that supplementary precautions may be needed.
Liability issues can arise if you are not equipped with the additional items that are needed for your vessel usage and travel plans. In fact, many state and local agencies have enacted their own additional requirements due to unique hazardous conditions or pertinent circumstances in their home waters. Check local resources for more information about your area.
Intended use
Once you have determined the intended use of your vessel, review the water temperature, distance from shore, and number of people onboard to determine what critical gear you need, including safety equipment, spare parts, and emergency provisions. Create a list of gear you will require in the event of a worst-case scenario.
Personal floatation device (PFD)
Recreational boats are required by federal law to have a life jacket for every person onboard. On a vessel that is underway, children under 13 must wear a US Coast Guard-approved life jacket unless they are below deck or within an enclosed cabin. If a state has a child life jacket requirement that differs from the Coast Guard requirement, the state requirement is enforced on waters subject to that state’s jurisdiction.
Children’s life jackets are approved for specific weight categories and should be chosen based on the intended use of the vessel. Although a life jacket may be approved, it might not be appropriate or adequate for your specific boating activities. Type 1 life jackets are always your best choice. For more information on life jackets, visit the U.S. Coast Guard’s site on PFD Selection, Use, Wear & Care.
Visual distress signals (VDS)
Visual distress signals can be parachute or meteor flares fired from a gun, handheld, smoke or flags. These signals are required on all vessels. Consult the guide to federal boating regulations to determine which VDS you should carry. Most pyrotechnic distress signals expire 48 months after the date they are manufactured, so be sure to discard and replace any expired signals. During an emergency is not the time to try to determine new from old.
First aid
Stay current on your first aid skills by taking a U.S. Coast Guard or American Red Cross first aid/CPR course. Your kit should be stocked so you may address accidents that could happen while on the water. Consult your physician for recommendations or shop online for available marine medical kits.
Fire extinguishers and suppression systems
Most people own a fire extinguisher but have never used it. Become familiar with the types, locations, and operations of your extinguishers. At a minimum, there should be one per cabin and additional devices in strategic locations. If possible, increase the size of your extinguishers. Your engine, machinery, and electrical spaces also should have fire suppression systems. Consult a local marine fire equipment specialist for advice.
During a fire, follow emergency procedures and communications. Turn off power or fuel sources that could be feeding the flames. If you are unable to put it out, be prepared to abandon ship. Attending a basic or advanced fire training course, such as those conducted by Resolve Maritime Academy, can give you the proper skills to take action in the event of a fire.
To-go bag
Regardless of the size of your vessel, have a to-go bag in the wheel house or a readily available location. The bag should contain the items you will need—those not in your life raft—if you must abandon ship. For more information, read How to Prepare if You Need to Abandon Ship .
Compass and electronics
Modern electronics have made navigation simpler for all boaters. However, the most important navigation equipment you have on board is your compass and chart. When navigating at night or in poor visibility, a compass is the best reference for holding a steady course or accurately changing course. When used with your GPS, you will be far more accurate. Additionally, there is no substitute for basic chart plotting. Always have current charts and plotting tools available and know how to use them. For assistance in mastering these techniques, contact a nearby Power Squadron or yacht club for information about boating classes.
Anchors, lines, and fenders
Equip your vessel with an adequately sized anchor system, lines, and fenders. Anchors vary for different bottom conditions, so a solid understanding of types and techniques is critical. Boating reference books, such as Chapman Piloting and Seamanship, offer information about anchor types, gear, and techniques.
Life rafts and survival/immersion suits
If your vessel can carry a life raft, it should. They come in different sizes and address varying needs. Survival or immersion suits are special waterproof dry suits that protect from hypothermia. Depending on the use of your vessel, one survival suit per passenger is recommended.
Drills and safety practices
Regular safety drills can go a long way toward making sure everyone onboard stays safe. Man overboard, fire, and abandon ship drills are recommended, as well as regularly reviewing safety equipment location and use. Create a pre-voyage checklist to ensure your equipment is in the correct location and in good shape.
Float plan
Never leave the dock without leaving a float plan with a responsible individual. A float plan outlines your route, stops, estimated times of arrival, and the equipment you have onboard. This will help search and rescue efforts if you are overdue from a voyage. For more helpful information, visit the U.S. Coast Guard’s Float Plan Central site.
