Minimum Federal Requirements (Recreational Boater's Guide)

Navigation Lights & Shapes  -  Boats without navigation lights are required to carry flashlight or other white flare-up light that must be displayed between sunset & sunrise in sufficient time to avoid a collision.   Knowing the distinctive light patterns & shapes could save your life ( Navigation Lights Test).

Waste Management Plan

Title 33 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 151.57 requires all ocean going vessels 40 ft or more used in commerce or equipped with galley & berthing to have written waste management plan (includes numbered & documented recreational vessels).

U.S. Coast Guard Lifesaving & Fire Safety Division

State & Local Requirements (typical)  -  MD  VA  Other States

Additional Items Worth Having Onboard:

Additional Information Worth Reviewing:

Lifejackets or Personal Flotation Devices (PFD)  -  Be sure to read & comply with information on label of Inflatable jackets.  If Lifejackets not worn when underway, prior to getting underway one should be assigned to each person, properly adjusted for them & put on to make sure they know how to use it.  Always store Lifejackets in clean, dry, well ventilated & easily accessible area (best by helm) that will allow them to float free if vessel should overturn or sink.  Be sure to regularly check that Lifejackets are in good serviceable condition (repair / replace as needed) & match your current needs (size & type).

Fire Extinguishers  -  Prevent fires by storing flammable materials away from flame, spark or heat sources & insuring shifting cargo doesn't accidentally activate aerosol spray cans.  Using wrong type extinguisher on a fire will usually make situation worse rather than better.  Extinguishers rated ABC can be safely used on any type of small contained fire.  To use an Extinguisher Remember P.A.S.S.

Backfire Flame Arrestor  -  Inspect & clean annually (repair or replace if damaged).

Ventilation System  -  Operator responsible for keeping systems in good operating condition (openings free of obstructions with appropriate cowls installed; ducts not blocked, crushed, kinked or torn; blowers operating properly & worn out components replaced as needed).

Visual Distress Signals (VDS):   Day , Night or Day/Night  -  Distress flares (handheld, meteor & parachute) have expiration dates 42 months after date of manufacture.  In Canada, vessels must comply with Canadian Coast Guard approved Requirements & Standards which are good for 48 months after date of manufacture.

Sound Producing Device  -  Exercise care to avoid damaging hearing by activating sound close to ears or when pointed directly at someone.   Sound signals used to communicate intentions, warn if risk of collision exists or position & headway during reduced visibility are listed in Navigation Rules.   Remember to regularly check propellant level in propellant activated devices (carry spare cylinder).

Boating Safety Guidelines & Good Practices that will help you be a safe, courteous, responsible & respected boater