In order to safely and legally operate your boat it is important to make sure that you have the right boating equipment. The right equipment is required by the United States Coast Guard. In addition, other equipment may be required by your state, so always check with your own state to determine whether you may need additional equipment to be in compliance with your state’s laws.

First, you will need to make sure that there is a personal flotation device for each person that is on board your boat. Make sure that the flotation devices are approved by the Coast Guard. Make sure that the life vest is appropriately sized for the person wearing it.

If your boat is smaller than 39.4 feet then you must also carry some type of sound producing device, such as an air horn. If your boat is larger than 39.4 feet then you should make sure that you have a whistle that can be heard for a minimum of ½ nautical mile.

You are also required to carry some form of visual distress signal, such as self-lighting flares.
If your boat is 26 feet or less then you must also have at least one hand operate fire extinguisher.

If your boat measures between 26 and 40 feet then you should have two fire extinguishers. If your boat is more than 40 feet long, you should have three fire extinguishers.

You should also have a back fire flame arrestor for the engine

For a complete guide to buying and maintaining a boat, getting it out on the water and what to do in case of emergency please click here