Safety Items You Must Carry on Your Boat

When you're preparing to head out on the water and enjoy spending time on your boat, there are many ways to prepare to ensure you can have safe travels. There should be a host of safety items and equipment onboard to ensure you have access to what you need if an accident or incident occurs. You can learn about the different safety items to have on our boat from the team at Yankee Boating Center in Lake George, New York, serving Clayton, New York.

Fire Extinguishers

Many people assume that because they're spending time on the water that there's no need for fire extinguishers, but they're necessary for putting out fires to prevent the boat from suffering from extensive damage and sinking. If your boat is smaller than 26 feet, then you need to pack at least one B-1 type extinguisher. Boats that are larger need a B-2 extinguisher or two B-1 extinguishers.

Life Jackets

Perhaps one of the most important items to pack on the boat are life jackets for yourself and the passengers you take with you. PFD life jackets are necessary and are available in three different types. You can require certain passengers to wear them at all times or place them in a spot that is easy to access. Each person should be properly fitted to ensure they can comfortably wear the jacket and to prevent it from slipping off their head. 

Visual Signaling Devices

If you need to reach out for help at any time during your trip, you'll need to have visual signaling devices to get the attention of other vessels or people on land. If you have a boat that is larger than 16 feet, then you need visual devices that are visible during the day and night. This includes white smoke, flares, and pyrotechnic devices.

Sound Devices

You should be able to emit a high sound if you need immediate help and are in distress. This is necessary because some visual signaling devices can be difficult to see at night or in the fog. Whistles and fixed horns work well and can be heard at a distance to ensure you get the attention of people nearby. If your boat is more than 39 feet long, then you can consider installing a bell on the deck.

Are you interested in learning more about the different types of safety items you should always have on your boat while going on different excursions? You can learn additional information from the team members at Yankee Boating Center. Our location is in Lake George, New York, and we serve Clayton, New York.