2025 Coast Guard

Rules & regulations

 

Coast Guard Boat Saftey Requirements

  • For safe boating, the U.S. Coast Guard requires all recreational vessels to carry life jackets for each person, visual distress signals, sound-producing devices, and fire extinguishers, among other safety equipment.

    Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the key U.S. Coast Guard boat safety requirements:

 

Required equipment

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs):

      • All recreational vessels must carry one wearable PFD for each person on board.
      • Boaters are encouraged to wear their PFDs at all times while underway.
      • Boats 16 feet and longer (except canoes and kayaks) must also carry one throwable (Type IV) device.
    • Visual Distress Signals (VDS):
      • Vessels on federally controlled waters must carry USCG-approved VDSs.
      • These signals allow you to summon assistance in an emergency.
    • Sound-Producing Devices:
      • Boats must have a sound-producing device (bell, horn, whistle, etc.).
      • These devices help alert others to your location and can be used in an emergency.
    • Fire Extinguishers:
      • Marine-type fire extinguishers are required on boats where a fire hazard could be expected from the engines or fuel system.
      • Check your fire extinguishers regularly to ensure they are properly charged, stored, and undamaged.
Also Required
  • Backfire Flame Arrestors:
    • All powerboats (except outboards) fueled with gasoline must have a Coast Guard-approved backfire flame arrestor on each carburetor. 
    • These devices prevent fires from engine backfires. 
  • Ventilation:
    • Proper ventilation is vital for keeping hazardous fumes from building up, especially in boats with enclosed spaces or engine compartments. 
    • The Coast Guard requires ventilation for vessels that utilize gasoline for electrical, mechanical, and propulsion power. 
  • Navigation Lights:
    • Boats must have navigation lights to ensure visibility and prevent collisions. 
  • Engine Cutoff Switch:
    • As of April 2021, the Coast Guard requires the use of an engine cutoff switch on all boats up to 26ft in length, powered by 3 or more HP. 
  • First Aid Kit:
    • A first aid kit is crucial for quickly addressing injuries while on the water. 
  • Anchor & Sufficient Line:
    • While not explicitly required by the Coast Guard, having an anchor and sufficient line is highly recommended for safety. 
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Additional Saftey Tips
  • Wear your life jacket:The Coast Guard estimates that wearing a life jacket could have saved the lives of over 80% of boating fatality victims.
  • Be aware of your surroundings:Pay attention to weather conditions, other boats, and potential hazards.
  • Know your boat:Understand its capabilities and limitations.
  • Take a boating safety course:Learn the basics of safe boating practices.
  • Always have a responsible captain:Make sure the person operating the boat is competent and has experience.