Boating Safety Tips & Regulations

Required Boating Safety Equipment

Personal Flotation Devices (Life Jackets)

Federal law requires one U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket for each person aboard. Additionally, boats 16 feet and longer (except canoes and kayaks) must have one throwable flotation device.

State Requirement: Many states require children under 13 to wear a life jacket at all times while on a moving vessel. Check your state's specific regulations.

Fire Extinguishers

Boats with enclosed engine compartments, fuel tanks, or living spaces must carry U.S. Coast Guard-approved fire extinguishers. The number and type depend on your boat's size:

• Under 26 feet: One B-I type extinguisher
• 26 to 40 feet: Two B-I type or one B-II type
• 40 to 65 feet: Three B-I type or one B-II plus one B-I type

Note: Fire extinguishers must be readily accessible, properly mounted, and inspected annually.

Sound-Producing Devices

Boats must carry a horn, whistle, or bell to signal other vessels:

• Under 40 feet: Whistle or horn audible for at least 1/2 mile
• 40 to 65 feet: Whistle + bell
• Over 65 feet: Whistle + bell + gong

Visual Distress Signals (VDS)

All boats operating on coastal waters, Great Lakes, and territorial seas must carry Coast Guard-approved visual distress signals. Options include:

• Three day/night pyrotechnic flares (replace every 42 months)
• Orange distress flag (3x3 feet with black square and ball)
• Electric distress light (SOS signal)
• Smoke signals (orange or red)

Minimum requirement: Three day signals AND three night signals, or three day/night combination signals.

Navigation Lights

If operating between sunset and sunrise, or in reduced visibility, boats must display proper navigation lights:

• Red (port): Left side, visible 112.5°
• Green (starboard): Right side, visible 112.5°
• White (stern): Rear, visible 135°
• White (masthead): Forward, visible 225° (boats over 39.4 feet)

Navigation Rules of the Road

Understanding navigation rules prevents collisions and ensures safe passage. These "rules of the road" are established by the U.S. Coast Guard and must be followed by all vessel operators.

Right-of-Way Hierarchy

When vessels approach each other, the following hierarchy determines who has the right-of-way (stand-on vessel):

1. Vessels not under command (disabled, unable to maneuver)
2. Vessels restricted in ability to maneuver (towing, dredging, diving operations)
3. Vessels constrained by draft (large ships in channels)
4. Fishing vessels (with nets or lines extended)
5. Sailing vessels (under sail only, no motor)
6. Power-driven vessels (recreational motorboats)

Safe Speed and Distance

• Operate at a speed that allows you to stop within a safe distance
• Consider visibility, traffic density, water depth, and weather conditions
• Maintain a proper lookout at all times (visual and auditory)
• Stay at least 100 feet away from diver-down flags
• Slow to idle speed (no wake) within 100-300 feet of shore, docks, or swimming areas (varies by state)

Weather Awareness & Planning

Weather conditions can change rapidly on the water. Before every outing, check marine forecasts and monitor conditions throughout your trip.

Pre-Launch Weather Check

• NOAA Weather Radio: VHF Channel WX1-WX7 (162.400-162.550 MHz)
• Online Marine Forecasts: NOAA Marine Weather, Windy.com, Weather.gov
• VHF Radio Updates: Continuous broadcasts on WX channels
• Local Knowledge: Check with marinas or other boaters about conditions

Lightning Safety

If caught in a lightning storm on the water:

1. Get to shore and find shelter in a building or vehicle
2. If unable to reach shore, stay in the center of the boat, away from metal
3. Keep low and avoid touching metal rails, hardware, or electronics
4. Disconnect electronic equipment if possible
5. Drop anchor and crouch down (don't lie flat)
6. Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming activities

Boating Under the Influence (BUI)

Why Alcohol and Boating Don't Mix

• Impaired judgment: Affects decision-making and risk assessment
• Balance problems: Boat movement + alcohol = increased fall risk
• Reduced coordination: Slower reaction times in emergencies
• Vision impairment: Difficulty focusing, tracking objects, and judging distances
• Inner ear effects: Disorientation, vertigo, and motion sickness
• Increased fatigue: Sun, wind, and waves amplify alcohol's effects

Did you know? A boat operator with a BAC of 0.10% is 10 times more likely to be killed in a boating accident than an operator with zero BAC. The Coast Guard reports that alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents.

Emergency Procedures & Response

Man Overboard (MOB)

If someone falls overboard, follow these steps immediately:

1. Shout "Man Overboard!" and throw a flotation device immediately
2. Assign a spotter: One person keeps eyes on the person in the water at all times
3. Press MOB button on GPS/chartplotter (if equipped)
4. Turn toward the person (turn toward the side they fell from)
5. Circle back slowly approaching from downwind
6. Shut off engine when alongside to prevent propeller injury
7. Pull person aboard using swim ladder, throw rope, or reboarding platform
8. Check for hypothermia and injuries; call for help if needed

Engine Failure

• Drop anchor immediately if in current, traffic, or near hazards
• Display distress signal if in danger
• Check fuel supply, fuel line connections, and primer bulb
• Check kill switch and throttle position
• Call for assistance via VHF radio (Channel 16) or cell phone

Capsizing or Swamping

1. Stay with the boat - it's more visible and provides flotation
2. Account for all passengers and ensure everyone has a flotation device
3. Minimize movement to conserve energy and body heat
4. Signal for help using whistle, flares, or waving bright clothing
5. Do not attempt to swim to shore unless it's very close (less than 1/4 mile)

Fire on Board

1. Stop the boat and position fire downwind
2. Shut off fuel supply if possible
3. Use fire extinguisher aiming at base of flames (P.A.S.S. method)
4. Prepare to abandon ship if fire cannot be controlled
5. Call Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16 or dial 911

Boater Education & Registration Requirements

Boating Safety Courses

Many states require boater education certificates for operators of certain ages or boat types. Requirements vary by state but typically include:

• Completion of an approved boating safety course
• Passing a written examination
• Minimum age requirements (often 12-16 years old for unsupervised operation)
• Additional requirements for personal watercraft (PWC) operators

Vessel Registration

All motorized vessels and sailboats over a certain length must be registered with your state or documented with the U.S. Coast Guard. Requirements include:

• Display registration numbers on both sides of bow (port and starboard)
• Numbers must be at least 3 inches high, block letters, contrasting color
• State decal placed within 6 inches of registration number
• Current registration certificate kept aboard
• Renewal typically every 1-3 years depending on state

Complete Pre-Launch Safety Checklist

Additional Boating Safety Resources