Don’t take off on a boating adventure unless you’re sure you have all the proper boat safety gear aboard! Here are a few items you’ll want to make sure to have with you before you head out on the water:
PFDs (life jackets)
Some boat safety gear isn’t just recommended to have on board—it’s the law! According to Florida law, there must be a US Coast Guard (USCG)-approved personal flotation device (PFD) on board for every person on your boat. Additionally, children under 6 are required to wear their life jackets at all times while on a boat under 26 feet.
Fire Extinguisher
A fire breaking out on a boat is a rare occurrence, but it does happen! Having a fire extinguisher on board your boat is an easy way to avoid an unlikely disaster. Most motorized boats in Florida are also required by law to have a fire extinguisher on board.
Radio
There are three types of VHF marine radios available for your boat: fixed, handheld, and portable. The right radio for you will depend on your specific boating plans; however, in any case, you’ll want a radio that’s waterproof and has a long battery life. If you’re going offshore, a Fixed VHF Radio with an antenna will have better reception. Fish Tale Boats can assist you in working out the other details of what VHF marine radio best meets your boating needs!
Visual and Auditory Signals
If you ever find yourself in trouble while out on your boat, you’ll want more than one way to signal for help. This includes both visual distress signals (such as flairs) and auditory distress signals (like whistles). For information on what visual and auditory signals may already come with your boat, as well as the best boat safety gear to add, talk to the knowledgeable sales staff at Fish Tale Boats!
Looking for more boat safety gear advice?
These boat safety devices are just the bare minimum. Depending on where you are boating and the type of boat you’re out on, there are other pieces of boat safety gear you’ll want to consider. Looking for a full rundown of gear options to keep you and your passengers safe while out on the water? Reach out to Fish Tale Boats directly!