If you are planning on taking someone on the boat with you, there are certain marine rescue equipment that you need to have on board if you want to make sure they remain safe. While boating is very safe and a fun hobby to keep, there are certain dangers that come with it.
However, the good thing is that you can tackle all of these dangers if you have the right security and rescue equipment. There is some certain equipment that should always be on your boat, even if you are not taking some people on the water on your boat.
Here are some essential security equipment that you must have on your boat at all times.
Start with Life Jackets
The first step of the way is to keep life jackets on your boat. You should always have an accessible and wearable PFD life jacket for each person that you will have on board. You are required by the law to do that. This is going to be your first line of defense for you when anyone for any reason is thrown off board. The life jackets will help keep them afloat, make sure their head stays above water in case they are unconscious and stay above water until help comes.
Move On To Fire Extinguishers
It may seem a little silly to have fire extinguishers on a boat that is on water, but it is one of the most essential items to keep on a boat. If your boat is under 26 feet, you need to carry at least one B1 type fire extinguisher. However, if your boat is under 40 feet, you need to carry two B-1 type fire extinguishers as well as one B-2 type fire extinguisher. More important than just carrying it, you should know how to use a fire extinguisher in case of an emergency. Better yet, everyone on the boat should know how to operate them. You will be surprised to know how quickly fire can travel on a boat, so it is always better to be safe than sorry.
Signaling Devices Are a Must
There are different types of signaling devices that you can keep with you on a boat. Most boaters are more comfortable with keeping visual signaling devices as they are available in a huge variety and they work really well in long range. If your boat is under 16 feet, you need to carry nighttime signals or flares. There are some types of flares that are self-launching, but there are some that you need to learn to work. Strobe lights are also a great signaling device too.
If you want to keep a sound signaling device, then you should definitely invest in some. These signals are great to keep with you if you are stuck in fog. You can get fixed or portable horns and are advised if your boat is over 39 feet. You can also carry a bell to ring at intervals. They always come in handy to let other boaters know where you are and where you are going.
