Boating Safety Equipment & Gear

Information on boating equipment, gear and requirements for boaters in the United States and Canada.

Distress Equipment

Certain distress equipment is required to be carried onboard pleasure craft at all times. This is so that you have it in the event of an emergency situation like a collision, a medical emergency or a mechanical breakdown. Situations like these, where you may require the use of a flare, are often unexpected, but if […]

Navigation Equipment

Navigation equipment (like sound signals and navigation lights) are required on all boats in Canada. Their purpose is to attract the attention of other boaters and to aid with navigation on the water. Sound-Signalling Devices and Appliances The Small Vessel Regulations require that all boats carry some form of sound-signalling device, such as a whistle or […]

Safety Equipment Requirements by Boat Type

Boat Safety Equipment Requirements Different sizes and types of boats are required to carry different safety equipment. To understand the necessities for each watercraft, refer to the below charts for personal safety equipment as well as boat safety equipment you should have onboard.

Boating Safety Equipment

Having the required boating safety equipment on your boat at all times is not only required but will also help you respond well if you find yourself in an emergency situation. The important part of your boating safety equipment is learning how to use it and being sure to maintain it or keep it in […]

Life Jackets & PFDs

An important part of Personal Safety Equipment are boater’s life jackets or PFDs. Let’s take a closer look at what you need to know about one of the most important pieces of safety equipment a boater can own. Life Jackets Life jackets can be found in both ‘Standard’ and ‘Small Vessel’ styles and are available […]

Boat Safety Equipment & Gear

Boat Safety Equipment Requirements in Canada Part of being a smart boater is fully understanding the boat safety equipment that is required onboard and knowing how to use it. Having the right equipment on board is one of the most important things you can do to ensure you are boating safely (right after getting your boating […]