Life jackets and buoyancy aids are the single most effective safety tool on any vessel. United States Coast Guard (USCG) regulations categorize PFDs into distinct types based on design, buoyancy level, and intended activity.

• Wearable PFDs: Every recreational vessel must carry at least one properly fitted, USCG-approved wearable life jacket for each person on board.

  • Fit & Condition: Sizing is based on weight and chest measurement. A life jacket must fit snugly without riding up past the chin or ears when pulled upward at the shoulders. Straps, buckles, and fabric must be free of tears, rot, or waterlogging.

  • Inflatables: Inflatable life jackets require active maintenance (inspecting CO₂ cartridges and bobbins) and are only USCG-approved for users aged 16 and older.

• Throwable Devices (Type IV): Vessels 16 feet and longer (excluding canoes and kayaks) must carry at least one throwable flotation device, such as a cushion or ring buoy, immediately available on deck for emergency rescues.

Federal regulations establish baseline equipment standards for all recreational boats operating in U.S. waters. (Note: State laws may impose additional requirements.)

• Child Life Jacket Rule: Federal law requires children under 13 years of age to wear an approved life jacket on a vessel underway, unless they are inside an enclosed cabin or below deck.

• Equipment Carriage Requirements:

  • Visual Distress Signals (VDS): Night and/or day signals (flares, orange smoke, or electric distress lights) are required on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, and high seas.

  • Fire Extinguishers: Motorboats must carry USCG-approved marine fire extinguishers based on vessel length and closed-compartment construction.

  • Sound-Producing Devices: All boats must carry a whistle or horn capable of producing an audible signal to alert nearby traffic in reduced visibility or emergency situations.

  • Navigation Lights: Required between sunset and sunrise, as well as during periods of reduced visibility (fog, heavy rain).

A Vessel Safety Check is a complimentary, non-punitive inspection of a boat’s safety equipment conducted by trained volunteers, such as members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

• Educational Focus: Examiners check that the vessel meets federal, state, and local safety equipment requirements. Because the inspection is purely educational, no citations or fines are issued if a boat lacks required gear.

• Inspection Items: The check covers registration numbers, PFD counts and condition, fire extinguishers, electrical and fuel systems, ventilation, distress signals, and navigation equipment.

• VSC Safety Decal: Vessels that pass the inspection are awarded an official Vessel Safety Check decal for the current calendar year.