Boat safety essentials
Required safety equipment depends on your boat's length, type and where you operate. This guide covers the gear most small powerboats carry so you can see what you have and what's missing.
Life jackets for everyone aboard
Carry a properly sized life jacket or PFD for each person on board, including children sized by weight. Inflatables are comfortable for adults on long days; foam vests are simple and maintenance-free.
- Keelson
Keelson Auto/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket, 33 g
Slim, light inflatable that inflates automatically or by pull cord
- Out of stockKeelson
Keelson Type II Child Life Jacket, 30-50 lb, Yellow
Properly sized vest for kids 30 to 50 lb, in high-visibility yellow
- Out of stockKeelson
Keelson Type III Adult Universal Life Jacket, Red
Comfortable adult vest with a universal fit, easy to spot in the water
Fire extinguisher
Mount the extinguisher where you can reach it quickly, away from the engine. Check the gauge every trip and replace or service it on schedule.
- Harbor Line
Harbor Line 5-B:C Marine Fire Extinguisher with Bracket
Rated for fuel and electrical fires, with a bracket for quick access
Signalling and a basic kit
A sound-signalling device, a buoyant heaving line, a bailer or manual pump and visual signals are common requirements on small boats. Kits bundle several of these together.
- Harbor Line
Harbor Line Boat Safety Kit with Flares, Whistle, Line and Bailer
Flares, whistle, heaving line and bailer in one ready-to-go kit
A way to call for help
A VHF radio reaches other boats and rescue services where cell coverage doesn't. A floating handheld is a good backup even if you have a fixed-mount set.
- Lakeline
Lakeline Fixed-Mount VHF Radio with DSC, Black
Helm-mounted VHF with DSC distress calling for safer boating
- Lakeline
Lakeline Floating Handheld VHF Radio, 6W
Floats if dropped, goes wherever you go, and backs up your fixed radio
Good to know: Requirements vary by boat length, type and location. In Canada, check the Transport Canada Safe Boating Guide; in the US, check US Coast Guard requirements for your vessel.