USA Boating
Visual Distress Signals While Boating: Types and Regulations
December 11, 2023
A Visual Distress Signal (VDS) is a crucial piece of boating safety equipment that allows your boat to be located swiftly during emergencies. If used correctly, visual distress signals make it possible to respond quickly to situations that could otherwise lead to tragic results. VDS signals include: Day signals that are visible in sunlight Night … Read more ›
Navigation Lights for Sailboats and Human-Powered Vessels
October 30, 2023
Navigation lights are an important element of boating safety equipment for all boats, including sailboats and human-powered vessels. If you are operating a sailboat or nonpowered boat such as a canoe, kayak or rowboat, you need to know when to use navigation lights. You also need to be aware of the correct configuration of navigation … Read more ›
Boat Navigation Light Rules and Requirements
Boat navigation lights are one of the most important pieces of safety equipment on your boat, along with personal flotation devices, boat fire extinguishers and boat ventilation systems. As a boat owner or operator, you are legally responsible for using the correct safety equipment at all times. This is your responsibility whether your boat is … Read more ›
What are Ventilation Systems on Boats Used For?
October 17, 2023
A boat engine produces fumes that can accumulate and lead to a powerful, potentially life-threatening explosion. A boat ventilation system makes this type of disaster much less likely by removing combustible fumes from the bilges of engines and fuel tank compartments. Your boat ventilation system is an essential part of your boating safety equipment. All … Read more ›
What are Backfire Flame Arrestors for Boats?
A backfire flame arrestor is a piece of safety equipment that you need to keep onboard if your boat has an inboard engine. What do backfire flame arrestors do? When a boat engine backfires, flames could come into contact with fuel or other flammables and start a fire. A backfire flame arrestor is a round … Read more ›
Boat Fire Extinguisher Classes and Requirements
October 2, 2023
Boat fire extinguishers are an essential piece of boating safety equipment. While not all boats are required to carry one by law, it is highly recommended that all boaters be prepared to fight fire by equipping their boat with an appropriate fire extinguisher, just in case. Boat fires can happen unexpectedly. While most boat fires … Read more ›
PFD Sizing & Fitting: Characteristics and Chart
Wearing the right life jacket is not only essential for boating legally and avoiding fines, it will keep you safe. Accidents on the water happen quickly, and when something goes wrong, there is rarely time to decide to put on a PFD, much less to make sure it fits properly. Before you take to the … Read more ›
Life Jacket Regulations for Children
Life jacket rules for children are just as binding as those for adults. Although it can be tempting to think that children might be free from boating regulations, both state and federal laws protect infants’ and children’s safety in the water with specific life jacket regulations. Failure to respect these rules could lead to tragic … Read more ›
Inflatable PFD Requirements & Restrictions
Within the broader category of wearable PFDs (also known as life jackets or life vests), there are two main styles to choose from: foam or inflatable. Inflatable personal flotation devices can be a good choice for boaters who want maximum comfort and mobility. However, it is important to note that inflatable PFDs are not legal … Read more ›
Personal Flotation Device (PFD) Rules & Regulations
September 5, 2023
Personal Flotation Devices, also called life jackets, are a key element of boating safety. However, not just any life jacket will protect you properly. It is important to use a PFD that is U.S. Coast Guard approved and in good condition. Here’s how to tell if your PFD meets USCG regulations and boater safety standards. … Read more ›