Boat safety gear checklist
Some of this is the law. Some of it is just the difference between an inconvenience and an emergency. Here's what belongs aboard a recreational boat on the Great Lakes — and why.
Legally required (U.S. recreational boats)
Federal law sets a minimum. Exact requirements depend on your boat's length and type, and states add their own rules, so confirm with your state boating agency and the U.S. Coast Guard. The core list:
- Life jackets (PFDs) — one U.S. Coast Guard–approved wearable PFD of the right size for every person aboard, in serviceable condition and readily accessible. Boats 16 feet and over also need one throwable (Type IV) device.
- Fire extinguisher — a marine-rated extinguisher (or the correct number for your boat's size), unexpired and charged, where you can grab it.
- Sound-producing device — a horn or whistle to signal other vessels.
- Visual distress signals — required on the Great Lakes: day and night signals (flares, or an electric SOS light for night and a distress flag for day). Check expiry dates.
- Navigation lights — working red/green and white lights if you operate between sunset and sunrise or in reduced visibility.
- Backfire flame arrestor & ventilation — for inboard gasoline engines.
A life jacket only works if it's worn. The large majority of boating drownings are people who had a PFD aboard but weren't wearing it. In cold water especially (see cold-water safety), you will not have the time or the hand strength to put one on after you're in. Wear it.
Strongly recommended
- Handheld VHF radio — a floating, waterproof VHF reaches the Coast Guard and nearby boats when a cell phone has no signal or a dead battery. Channel 16 is the hailing and distress channel. This is the single best communication upgrade you can make.
- Anchor and rode — enough line and chain for the depth you boat in. An anchor holds you off a lee shore if the engine quits and steadies you in a chop.
- Bilge pump or bailer — powered, plus a manual backup (even a cut-open jug).
- Marine first-aid kit — and the knowledge to use it.
- Dock lines and fenders, a knife, a flashlight/headlamp, and a tool kit.
- Phone in a waterproof case — as a backup to the VHF, not a replacement.
- Extra fuel, and a check that you have enough — the "rule of thirds": a third out, a third back, a third in reserve.
Cold-water & Great Lakes extras
The lakes run cold most of the year and can turn quickly, so add:
- A wetsuit or drysuit when the water is cold — ordinary clothing offers no protection against cold shock.
- A re-boarding ladder or self-rescue plan — getting back aboard from the water is far harder than people expect, especially when cold.
- A whistle and light attached to each PFD, so a person in the water can signal.
- A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or EPIRB for boaters who range far offshore.
- Warm layers and a way to stay dry — hypothermia doesn't require immersion; a wet, windy day on open water will do it.
Before every trip
Gear only helps if it's aboard, working, and in date. Run through it as part of your pre-launch checklist, check the current conditions and verdict for your launch, and tell someone your plan. The gear that matters most is the gear you have and know how to use before you need it.
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and many state agencies offer free vessel safety checks — a no-penalty inspection that confirms you're carrying and maintaining the right equipment. It's a good annual habit.
This is a general guide, not legal advice. Equipment requirements depend on your boat and state and do change — verify with the U.S. Coast Guard and your state boating agency.