How to Put Together a Boat Safety Kit
Every boater knows that preparation is the key to enjoying your time out on the water. A well-stocked boating safety kit is the perfect tool to be ready for any unexpected situations or emergencies. From routine equipment checks to having a boat safety kit , it is important that you know what to include. America’s Boating Club | United States Power Squadrons will dive into what makes the best safety kits for boats and how you can put together your own boat safety kit.
What Safety Equipment Must Be in a Boat?
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, specific items must be present on your vessel depending on vessel type and length. A list including some of the USCG required equipment plus some recommended but not required boat safety equipment includes the following:
- Life Jackets (PFDs): Every passenger must have a properly sized and Coast Guard approved life jacket or personal floating device.
- Throwable Flotation Device: This can be a ring buoy or cushion.
- Fire Extinguisher: Vessels must have at least one depending on the size of the boat and type.
- Sound-Producing Device: Whether it is a whistle, horn, or even bell.
- Visual Distress Signals: You must have flares of day signals, depending on the waterway.
- Navigation Lights: These are functional and comply with regulations.
- Engine Cut Off Switch
A boat safety kit will ensure that these essentials are covered, t only keeping you ready for unforsceen medical emergencies.
What to Put in a Boat First Aid Kit?
Beyond the mandatory Coast Guard equipment items, boat safety equipment package aboard should also include a reliable first aid kit. Here are some items to stock your kit with:
- Adhesive bandages, gauze pads, and medical tape
- Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
- Scissors and tweezers
- Elastic wraps in case of a sprain
- Pain relievers
- Aloe gel for sunburns
- Emergency blanket
- Waterproof case to protect all supplies
Customizing your boat safety kits with any personal medications or supplies your child needs will add another great layer of readiness.
Additional Items to Consider
While a basic boat safety kit will cover most of the basics, smart boaters will add extra gear such as:
- Waterproof flashlight and spare batteries
- Extra drinking water
- Non-perishable snacks
- Multi-tool or knife
- Spare ropes
- Duct Tape
- Portable phone charger
- VHF radio
These items can help ensure that even in an emergency you are prepared to handle it.
Be Prepared and Stay Safe with America’s Boating Club
Building the right boating safety kit will take some effort but in the long run will pay off giving you the peace of mind. Whether you plan to buy a boat safety kit Coast Guard approved or create your own customized version, having a well-stocked safety kit for boats will help to keep you and your passengers protected on every boating trip.
At America's Boating CLub | United States Power Squadrons, we believe that boating safety is the foundation of fun out on the water. Take the next step and enroll in one of our boating safety courses that teach you how to use your equipment properly and effectively because a good boating safety kit is only good when a boater knows how to use it.
Find a boating safety class near you today with America’s Boating Club