What equipment is required on all recreational vessels in Maryland?

In Maryland, all recreational vessels are required to have a personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board. This regulation is crucial for safety, as PFDs are vital in preventing drowning in case of accidents or falls overboard. Ensuring that there is a suitable flotation device for every person on the vessel not only complies with state laws but significantly enhances safety during boating activities.

The other choices may include equipment that can be useful or necessary in certain scenarios, but they do not meet the mandatory requirement across all recreational vessels in Maryland. For example, a fire extinguisher is important for fire safety, particularly on motorized vessels, and a first aid kit can be essential for injuries, but these items are not universally required for every type of recreational boat. Similarly, signaling devices, portable toilets, and cabin lights serve specific purposes and are required under certain conditions, but they are not mandated as essential for every recreational vessel.