SAFETY
SECTION
2
© 2003-2018 Ken Cook Co.
2 - 24
l Bass
Regulations prohibit using pyrotechnic VDS or any VDS in non-emergency
situations.
VDS must be:
• USCG-approved
• In proper operating condition
• Safely stowed and readily available
• Within the clearly marked expiration date stamp on the device (where
applicable)
Types of VDS vary by emergency situation. VDS are classified as either pyrotechnic
or non-pyrotechnic.
NOTE — Some pyrotechnics may be restricted on certain bodies of water. Check
with local authorities, or visit the National Association of State Boating Law
Administrators (NASBLA) website: http://www.nasbla.org or the U.S. Coast Guard
website: http://www.uscg.mil for additional information.
See the U.S. Coast Guard Minimum Onboard Personal Safety Equipment Required
section of this manual for specific onboard requirements.
AUDIBLE SIGNALING DEVICES
Audible (sound) signals are required to be on board all boats to alert other boats of
your presence. A boat less than 39.4 feet (12 meters) must always have an efficient
sound-producing device on board (Example: hand or mouth whistle, or a
compressed or powered air horn).
A boat at least 39.4 feet (12 meters) but less than 65.6 feet (20 meters) operating in
inland waterways must always have a power whistle or powered air horn and a bell
on board.
All devices must be acceptable for use in marine environments, audible for 1/2
nautical mile and maintain a continuous four- to six-second sound duration. The
diameter of the bell’s mouth must be a minimum of 7.9 inches (20.0 centimeters).
Ensure all passengers understand how to operate all audible distress signaling
devices on board. Keep these devices in a readily accessible area and within
immediate reach at all times when boating.
See the U.S. Coast Guard Minimum Onboard Personal Safety Equipment Required
section of this manual for specific onboard requirements and see the Navigational
Lights and Night Operation section of this manual for usage information.
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