2006-07-22 09:32:14 · 6 answers · asked by keith 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Boats & Boating
What you need depends on local, state, and federal laws. Requirements will vary from place to place.
You will probably need life jackets, a horn, an nachor, fire extinguisher, throwable PFDs, flares, an SOS flag.... probably more, but I'm just listing some things off the top of my head.
Also, even if the law doesn't require it, I'd be sure I have a cell phone, marine radio (you don't need a radio permit/liscence in USA), an emergency paddle and a good tool kit.
Contact Power Squadron or Coast Guard and they'll tell you what you need. Call them up or visit them at the next boat show.
I'd recommend taking a basic Power Squadron boating course. (It's usually free.) They will:
a. Tell you what you need.
b. Get you a nice discount on your boating insurance.
c. Teach you what you need to know to be safe.
d. Can teach you specific things about boating in your local area.
I think everyone should take a boating course and, even though it's not required, it's a smart thing to do.
Their website: http://www.usps.org/
Good luck.
2006-07-23 02:44:20 · answer #1 · answered by TumbleTim 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You will need at least 1 life jacket for every person on board.
The inflatable PFD's don't count unless it is being worn.
Children under 12 might be required to have a PFD on at all times when on deck depending on the size of the boat.
I throwable device-approved seat cushion or ring type.
1 or more fire extinguishers.
Signaling devices-Flag for day and a minimum of 3 flares for night(must not be expired)
Anchor + rope, Marine Radio and GPS is recommended but not required.
2006-07-22 19:29:08 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Let me HIGHLY endorse Tumble Tim's answer about contacting the Power Squadron or Coast Guard Aux, not only for a free boat inspection, but a wonderful boat operating course.......
2006-07-24 09:36:55 · answer #3 · answered by yankee_sailor 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You will require life jackets for children under 16 and life jackets or flotation device for every person on the boat. If your going to Ski, you will need a red flag and/or a airhorn.
2006-07-22 16:37:33 · answer #4 · answered by Amadeus 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You will find all the information you need at: www.uscgboating.org .
Depending on where you are launching from, you might want to check the websites of the states of: Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin.
Good sailing!
2006-07-22 16:43:57 · answer #5 · answered by circle_sabine 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Contact your nearest Coast Guard Auxiliary. They will be more than happy to tell you what you need. Their service is free.
2006-07-23 00:13:22 · answer #6 · answered by Richard B 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋