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6.2 Suggested Safety Equipment - Inshore
Suggested safety equipment, over and above the required equipment is:
xFirst aid kit and manual
xBoat hook
xTool kit
xAn adequate number and size of line should be on the boat. Bow lines should be at least 1/3 longer
than the boat’s length and stern lines at least as long as the boat. When operating in areas with
unusually high tidal range, this should be lengthened. The minimum size line for a small boat is 3/8”
diameter 3 strand nylon. Refer to one of the listed references in the Appendix for a complete
discussion on line size relative to boat length.
xWaterproof flashlight, with good batteries
xSpare batteries
xSpare boat keys
xBinoculars
xTow line. This should be a minimum of 50’ long with at least one size increase over the boat’s
mooring lines.
xDay/Night visual distress signals
xLocal charts and compass
xProperly sized anchor and line
xFenders of the proper size
Always carry water, even for a 10 minute cruise.
6.3 Suggested Safety Equipment – Offshore
In addition to the required equipment, and the suggested inshore equipment, there is additional
equipment which is prudent to have when venturing offshore. No matter what the conditions at the
start of the trip, the situation can change rapidly and all your equipment and skill can be required to
safely bring your crew home to safety.
xVHF radio
xA supplemental, portable VHF is also a good back-up
xSunscreen
xSpare propeller and the knowledge of how to properly change it, if required
xExtra clothing for changeable weather conditions
xSpare anchor with sufficient line for the water depth
xMirror
xCharts