Boating can be an enjoyable summer activity, but without proper safety gear on board, it can become hazardous. 

Federal regulations mandate that you carry enough Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices that fit each person onboard your vessel. Let’s look at some of the safety equipment you should have on board.

Life Jackets

Life jackets (also referred to as personal flotation devices or PFDs) provide boaters with additional time for rescue efforts during an emergency, increasing their chances of survival and giving more time for them to be found and saved. All boaters should carry one suitable for their activity, water conditions, or body type.

Select a Personal Floatation Device (PFD) that best meets your needs and complies with local, state, and federal safety regulations. One PFD must be worn by everyone aboard your vessel.

Additionally to having mandatory PFDs for every person on board, consider also keeping one throwable device and an adequately-stocked first aid kit aboard for potential man overboard incidents and regularly checking and replacing your safety equipment as necessary - for more tips, see our Pro Tip: Safety Checklist for Your Boat.

First Aid Kit

Though most days on the water may go without any major complications, it's wise to be prepared in case an unexpected incident should arise. Carrying an appropriate first aid kit with you can assist in responding swiftly in case of medical emergencies or injuries.

For quick and easy first aid access, the best first aid kits feature compartmented storage pouches with labels to make finding what you need quick and simple. Our pick: this first aid kit* that unzips to reveal four distinct compartments each featuring its own label detailing their purpose - perfect!

Boaters must carry a marine VHF radio for emergency communication purposes with other boats or the Coast Guard in an emergency situation. A handheld personal locator beacon is also recommended as this allows users to alert rescuers wherever they may be located worldwide.

Throwable Flotation Device

Throwable flotation devices (TFDs), commonly referred to as life rings or buoys, should be standard equipment on any boat as drowning is the leading cause of boating fatalities. A throwable rescue PFD can assist a person who has fallen overboard to recover their footing and return safely back aboard your vessel. Choose a product from reputable manufacturers like Mustang Survival or Stearns to ensure its compliance with safety standards.

Emergency boating items should always be on board, such as a tool kit for minor equipment repairs and extra dock lines to tie off with. By having this essential equipment on board you will ensure your experience can continue without fear or panic while prioritizing safety and preparedness.

Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are essential items to have on board and may even be legally mandated in certain jurisdictions. Make sure that enough for both guests and pets (pet PFDs are also available), along with the correct type of extinguisher suitable to your boat size and the waters it will traverse are available to ensure a smooth journey.

Handheld Horn

Assembling appropriate foul-weather gear is key for keeping yourself comfortable when the clouds begin to darken, including jackets and pants with windproof and waterproof capabilities.

Handheld horns are essential boating equipment. Federal regulations mandate that vessels under 39.4 feet in length be equipped with either a whistle, handheld air horn, or installed horn that emits an audible sound signal of 120 decibels or greater. Some handheld horns use chemical propellant tetrafluoromethane that is both ozone-friendly and flammable - perfect for keeping passengers safe on board!

Other accessories boaters should keep on board include a VHF radio for communicating with marinas and the Coast Guard, an expansive first aid kit with items to treat various injuries, and a tool kit with basic repair supplies. Fenders are another handy add-on when docking or mooring boats to protect your hull from dock lines or other boats contacting it during docking or mooring operations.