Boating Basics - U.S. Coast Guard & Local Boating Requirements

Before you set out for that boating adventure make sure you’ve got everything the law requires.  Boaters Marine Supply believes that boating safety is first and foremost.  As they say “ignorance of the law is no excuse.”  Knowing and having what is required can prevent the best of days from becoming the worst in your life.

Take five minutes and check out the following Boating Basics.        

Brief History

In 1971 the Congress of the United States ordered the U.S. Coast Guard to improve recreational boating safety.  In response the U.S Coast Guard created specific federal regulations governing requirements for boats and what is to be on them.  In the years that followed state and local governments created regulations (which sometimes exceed the federal regulations).          

Boat Requirements: 

On Board Requirements

• A PFD (Personal Flotation Device) is required for every person onboard the boat.  The PFDs must be U.S. Coast Guard approved (labeled as such).  In many states, the law says you must wear your PFD when underway or when on a PWC (Personal Water Craft) or water skiing, tubing, etc.
• Boats over 16 feet must have a throwable PFD (Personal Floatation Device) onboard, and immediately available, in case someone falls overboard.
• Every boat needs a working whistle or horn that can be heard at least ½ mile away.  Boats over 30 feet have additional requirements.  You can attach a whistle to your PFD so that you always have a sound producing device within reach.  Make sure it is a whistle that works when it gets wet.
• Visual Distress Signals should be carried on all boats operating on coastal waters (the ocean or waters that lead to the ocean), the Great Lakes and waters connected to them up to a point where the body of water is less than 2 miles wide.  We recommend every boat carry visual distress signals.

• A U.S. Coast Guard approved, marine-type, Class B, fire extinguisher must be carried onboard power boats where it can be quickly and easily accessed.  Additional requirements exist for large vessels.  Extinguishers are not required on boats that don't have motors. 

Requirements For Small Boats - No Power

If you have a small sail boat, canoe, rowboat or dinghy (under 16 feet with no engine) you are required to have the following:

Required:

• At least one PFD (life jacket) for everyone onboard.  Always wear your PFD when in your boat.
• A whistle or horn.  Make sure the whistle is the type that will work if it gets wet.  Blowing your whistle for 4 second intervals every minute will let other boaters know where you are.  If you find yourself in trouble this is a recognized help signal, so only use it when you really need help. 

Recommended:

• A flashlight - you may need it so that other boats can see you or if you need to signal in the dark. 
• Two oars that are secured with oar locks or rope to stay in the boat if it tips.
• A bailing bucket.
• A First Aid kit.
• A blanket to prevent hypothermia if you get wet and cold.
• Two ropes to tie up the boat and also to help a person overboard get back onboard.
• A mirror or shiny object for daytime signaling.
• Ponchos or rain gear.
• A plastic bag to keep these items dry and secure.

Before you go anywhere file a float plan and give it to someone you trust.  That person will notify the authorities if you don't arrive at your destination as specified.  Of course don't forget to contact the person you gave it to when to get to your destination.               

         Safe Boating

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