Boating Equipment Essentials

Take the time to read the following article, surely you will benefit from the research that been conducted in order for it to be written.

Boating equipment is as important as your knowledge of your boat and the water. You are required by United States law to keep certain pieces of equipment onboard at all times. If you do not, you take the chance of being fined. There are other obvious reasons why you should follow these simple rules. The right equipment will protect you and your boat.

Federal Requirements for Boating Gear:

Registration Papers -- You must carry the vessel's state registration/documentation at all times. Additionally, you will want the photo ID of the boat's owner or operator in case of a 911 call.

Life Jackets - According to law, you must have a life jacket for every person onboard at all times. This includes both big and little people.

Throw able Flotation Device -- If your boat is 16' or larger, you are required to have one throwable device such as a life ring onboard.

Fire Extinguisher -- If your boat has an enclosed engine or fuel tank, you must carry a fully charged Coast Guard-approved fire extinguisher onboard. Check the federal law for larger vessels as additional fire extinguishers may be required.

Visual Distress Signals -- Necessary for both day and night voyages, these signals must be within the expiration date.

Navigation Lights -- Required for powered boats operating after sunset. Check the federal law for specific requirements.

Horn or Whistle -- Required on all vessels in federal waters.

Flame Arrestor -- Required equipment on all powered boats.

Other Helpful Boating Gear:

First Aid Kit -- Include sunscreen and ointment as well as basic first aid supplies .

Tool Kit -- Keep a flashlight and spare batteries in here as well.

Bilge Pump -- Or other dewatering device.

Marine Radio -- This should be considered a requirement on any powered vessel and is helpful on non-powered boats as well.

Chart and Compass -- Unless you plan to stay very close to shore, the ability to plot and navigate your course is important.

Drinking Water and Snacks -- Anything can happen in the open water, so you should be prepared for the worst. Bring water with you on any voyage, but also keep an emergency supply onboard. High protein, nonperishable snacks are also helpful in the event you become stuck for a period of time.

Boat Hooks, Boat Anchors, Proper Mooring Lines -- Docking and undocking are often the most dangerous parts of a voyage. Utilizing the proper equipment during these procedures will minimize the risks and help to protect your boat from damage. Boat anchors can actually save your life should your engine fail, while boat hooks can protect you from injuries or falls that are often sustained when boaters attempt to use their arms or legs to assist in docking.

As you gain experience with your boat, you will likely think of additional items to add to the above lists. Remember that the first list consists of federally required boating equipment while the second list consists of optional safe boating items. Check with the state in which you will operate your boat to determine if there are additional state requirements. Taking the time to properly equip your boat can mean the difference between a pleasant voyage and a disaster.

Thanks for reading I hope you gained some knowledge form this article?

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