| Based on United States law, you need to have | | | | First Aid Kit -- Include sunscreen and ointment as |
| basic boating equipment onboard at all times. | | | | well as basic first aid supplies . |
| Failure to do so will lead to hefty fines. The fines, | | | | Tool Kit -- Keep a flashlight and spare batteries in |
| however, ought to be only a minor reason for | | | | here as well. |
| making sure you have everything you need | | | | Bilge Pump -- Or other dewatering device. |
| onboard. There are other safety issues involved. | | | | Marine Radio -- This should be considered a |
| The following checklist will ensure that you have all | | | | requirement on any powered vessel and is helpful |
| of the necessary boating equipment. | | | | on non-powered boats as well. |
| Federal Requirements for Boating Gear: | | | | Chart and Compass -- Unless you plan to stay |
| Registration Papers -- You must carry the | | | | very close to shore, the ability to plot and |
| vessel's state registration/documentation at all | | | | navigate your course is important. |
| times. Additionally, you will want the photo ID of | | | | Drinking Water and Snacks -- Anything can |
| the boat's owner or operator in case of a 911 call. | | | | happen in the open water, so you should be |
| Life Jackets - These are required for each person | | | | prepared for the worst. Bring water with you on |
| onboard. Be sure to have jackets for people of all | | | | any voyage, but also keep an emergency supply |
| ages and sizes. | | | | onboard. High protein, nonperishable snacks are |
| Throw able Flotation Device -- If your boat is 16' | | | | also helpful in the event you become stuck for a |
| or larger, you are required to have one throwable | | | | period of time. |
| device such as a life ring onboard. | | | | Boat Hooks, Boat Anchors, Proper Mooring Lines |
| Fire Extinguisher -- If your boat has an enclosed | | | | -- Docking and undocking are often the most |
| engine or fuel tank, you must carry a fully | | | | dangerous parts of a voyage. Utilizing the proper |
| charged Coast Guard-approved fire extinguisher | | | | equipment during these procedures will minimize |
| onboard. Check the federal law for larger vessels | | | | the risks and help to protect your boat from |
| as additional fire extinguishers may be required. | | | | damage. |
| Visual Distress Signals -- Necessary for both day | | | | Boat anchors can actually save your life should |
| and night voyages, these signals must be within | | | | your engine fail, while boat hooks can protect you |
| the expiration date. | | | | from injuries or falls that are often sustained |
| Navigation Lights -- Required for powered boats | | | | when boaters attempt to use their arms or legs |
| operating after sunset. Check the federal law for | | | | to assist in docking. |
| specific requirements. | | | | The first list refers to boating equipment items |
| Horn or Whistle -- Required on all vessels in | | | | that you are required to keep onboard at all |
| federal waters. | | | | times. The second list is filled with items that are |
| Flame Arrestor -- Required equipment on all | | | | considered optional. Preparation is the key to a |
| powered boats. | | | | successful voyage and that includes making sure |
| Other Helpful Boating Gear: | | | | that your boat is filled with the proper equipment. |