No one ever expects an accident to happen to him or her, but they do unfortunately occur. That's why every boater needs to have boat safety equipment in case of an urgent situation. Exactly like the Boy Scout's motto, it is best to"always be prepared"

The obvious, and most important, vessel safety equipment are personal flotation devices, or PFDs. That is really a requirement and not an option. All recreational boaters will need to have approved PFDs that are Coast Guard approved, in working condition, and the proper size to the user. It isn't compulsory that you just wear one all the time, but it's a very good idea for children. Always have your PFDs readily offered. You ought to be able to locate them and put them on within a short amount of time when there's an urgent situation.


Just like in your home, you should have fire extinguishers on your own vessel. Certain boats are required to own one, but it's best if every boat contains atleast one. Visual distress signals are another piece of boat safety gear that ought to be aboard. There are specific rules concerning who needs certain types of distress signs. Vessels applied to coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas, and those directly attached to these must be built with a U.S.C.G. approved visual distress signal. There are also rules for daytime and night signs, therefore be aware of both types. There are pyrotechnic devices, such as reddish stripes, and non-pyrotechnic devices, such as orange distress flags, which can just be used through the day. Red flares are observable during the day and night, but they could be dangerous if not used correctly.

A First Aid Kit must be carried. Some times smaller accidents like a cut or a bump on the mind occur and also you ought to be prepared. You'll be far out to sea and you'll need simple medical attention immediately. When an accident was to occur and also you couldn't find your flares, at least a a horn can alarm the others near.

Even safety boat hire services , such as a bailer, might help if your vessel begins to take water. Based on the sort you get, these may be relatively cheap to costly for more complex devices.

Besides equipping yourself with this ship safety equipment, it's strongly suggested that you have a boating safety course so that you understand exactly when and how to utilize these items. You can take a more enjoyable boating experience knowing that you're well prepared.