What mandatory safety equipment must be on each vessel?

Each vessel is required to carry specific mandatory safety equipment to ensure the safety of all on board. Life jackets, fire extinguishers, and sound signaling devices are essential for a number of reasons.

Life jackets, or personal flotation devices (PFDs), are vital for the safety of everyone on the boat. They are designed to keep individuals afloat in the water in case of an emergency, such as capsizing or falling overboard. Having an adequate number of properly fitting life jackets for all onboard is not just a safety measure but a legal requirement.

Fire extinguishers are equally important, particularly for motorized vessels or any boat that carries flammable materials. They provide a means to tackle small fires before they escalate into a larger emergency, ensuring the safety of passengers and the prevention of property damage.

Sound signaling devices, such as whistles or horns, are necessary for communicating with other vessels and being heard in noisy environments. They can alert other boaters to your presence, help avoid collisions, and signal for help in emergencies.

Having these items ensures that the vessel is compliant with safety regulations and enhances the safety and well-being of everyone aboard.