The US COAST GUARD requires boaters to carry safety equipment on board. This could save your life.
Make sure you have all the necessities before you set sail.
Required Boating Safety Equipment
Make sure you carry these items on board to stay safe (and legal!) on the water.
Life Jackets
A properly fitting and serviceable jacket for every person on board.
Fire Extinguisher
It must be a Coast Guard-approved B1 model.
Throwable
Boats over 16 feet must carry a throwable device.
Signaling Device
A bell, whistle, or horn to warn other boaters.
Visual Distress Signal
For boats under 16 feet, this is required only at night; for boats over 16 feet, this is required both day and night. Different rules apply on small bodies of water, but it's always wise to carry them.