There are a few essentials to always keep on your boat for your safety, and the safety of your passengers. You may not carry a captain’s license, but you are the captain of your own vessel, hence you are responsible for your passengers. Being on the water can be unpredictable, especially in Florida. With weather that changes in the blink of an eye, there is no telling when a summer storm will sweep across coastal waterways. A few things are obvious such as life jackets and first aid kits, but others are required by law to have aboard your vessel.
First Aid
It’s critical for your first aid supplies to be stored in a dry box, and maybe even thrown in a dry bag for extra precaution. The worst possible outcome is to pull out your first aid kit in a time of need and the contents are unusable. Let’s list a few must-haves for your kit:
- A variety of bandages
- Alcohol wipes
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Antihistamine (can also treat nausea and motion sickness)
- Disposable gloves
- Gauze
- Foil blanket
- Multi tool with knife
- Scissors
- Antiseptic ointment
- Sterile absorbent pads
A first aid kit is essential to have aboard for any accident that may occur, but let’s look at the nonnegotiable items by the state of Florida.
Life Jackets/Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
It is required to have a type I, II, or III PFD for each person aboard the vessel. For any child 6 years old or younger is required to wear a type I, II, or III PFD while the vessel is underway. The PFDs must be approved by the US Coast Guard, and stored properly on the vessel.
Fire Extinguisher
A US Coast Guard approved B-1 fire extinguisher is a requirement for recreational boats except outboard-powered vessels under 26 feet if it is constructed in a manner that does not allow gas fumes to accumulate. Any boats over 26 feet are required to have a fire extinguisher that is easily accessible onboard. It is suggested that all boats carry a fire extinguisher no matter the size. There is no telling when you will truly need one, whether it’s for you or to help someone else in need.
Visual Distress Signal
They are required for coastal waters and high seas. Coastal waters include any entrance that is over 2 miles. For example, the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and all bays. Visual Distress signals can be red handheld signal flares, orange smoke signals, and parachute flares.
Sound Producing Device
These include horns, bells, or whistles. A horn is the most effective, as it is the loudest of the three. Any vessel under 39 feet must carry a sufficient sound producing device.
Vessel Lighting
All recreational vessels are required to display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise during periods of reduced visibility.
For more information on the safety equipment required for your vessel, please visit the link below and stay safe.
