According to Florida law, vessels must carry specific safety equipment depending on their size and type. The key requirements are: Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs):
- Every person on board must have a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)-approved wearable PFD (Type I, II, III, or V) that fits properly and is in serviceable condition
- Children under 6 years old must wear an approved PFD while the vessel is underway
- For vessels 16 feet or longer, in addition to one wearable PFD per person, there must be at least one throwable Type IV device immediately available
Fire Extinguishers:
- Required on motorized vessels, with the type and number depending on boat size and engine type. For example, one USCG-approved 5-B (B-I) type fire extinguisher is required on most recreational motorboats, especially those with built-in fuel tanks or inboard engines
Visual Distress Signals:
- Required on vessels operating in coastal waters or high seas, including day and night signals for boats over 16 feet. These include USCG-approved flares or distress lights
Sound-Producing Devices:
- A horn, bell, or whistle must be aboard to signal intentions or alert others
Boat Lighting:
- Proper navigation lights are required for vessels operating between sunset and sunrise or in restricted visibility
Additional Requirements:
- Ventilation systems for gasoline-powered boats with enclosed engine compartments built after August 1980
- Backfire flame arrestors on gasoline engines built after August 1980, except outboards
Failure to carry the required safety equipment can result in fines up to $1,000 per violation
. In summary, Florida law mandates that vessels carry USCG-approved PFDs for each person, appropriate fire extinguishers, visual distress signals where applicable, sound-producing devices, proper lighting, and other safety equipment depending on vessel size and type to ensure safety on the water
