| Boat Safety Equipment Checklist
What safety equipment do you need onboard? Check out our below: | |
| VHF radios | |
| Life jackets | |
| Throwable PFDs | |
| Sound devices — some vessels are required to carry a power whistle or power horn and a bell on board | |
| Fire extinguishers — Coast Guard-approved fire extinguishers are required on certain boats | |
| Anchor and line | |
| Basic tools and spare parts — spark plugs and other parts should be marine-rated. Never use automotive parts | |
| Flares or other visual distress signals | |
| Compass and chart | |
| First aid kit | |
| Paddle and bailer | |
| Lights and flashlight | |
Assembling a Personal Care Kit It’s also a good idea to assemble a personal care kit you can keep on your boat at all times. That way you’ll have what you need to stay more comfortable and safe in case of an emergency. Supplies might include: | |
| Personal care items such as sunscreen and prescription medicines | |
| Sunglasses and hat | |
| Foul weather gear | |
| Binoculars | |
| Extra clothing and a hat for warmth, preferably wool | |
| Food and water | |
Preparing and Filing a Float Plan Finally, remember to file a float plan before you leave on a boating trip. Give the following information to a friend or relative who can call for help if you do not return as scheduled: | |
| A complete description of your vessel including the registration number | |
| Names of people on board | |
| Information about where you are going | |
| Expected return time | |
| Phone number of the local or state marine authority | |
