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Chapter 1
Remember the U. S. Coast Guard requirements are minimal
standards. ey are an excellent starting point. Check with local and
state boating agencies for further required safety equipment. You are
best prepared for emergencies by a well equipped vessel. Don’t skimp
when purchasing equipment for your boat!
COMMUNICATIONS
It is a good idea to carry communication gear
such as a VHF-FM and/or HF transceivers set
up for your operating area. Also, cell phones
are useful in many coastal areas. Be sure to
carry extra batteries. Also, mainly for o shore
vessels, EPIRB’s are designed to quickly and
accurately alert rescue forces, indicate an
accurate distress position, and guide units to the distress scene. ese
devices operate from satellite signals sent to a ground station where
the signal is downloaded. e downside is that they are relatively
expensive and are used less today by the recreational boater but they
are reliable even when other communications have been exhausted.
LIFE RAFTS
Inflatable life rafts are
recommended for oceangoing
and operating a vessel in a large
body of water like the Great
Lakes. They provide a shelter
for extended periods. If used,
make sure it is large enough for all aboard and contains the proper
emergency equipment pack. Periodically nd a professional to service
the life ra . Store it on board in an area safe from sharp objects. Make
sure the life ra is Coast Guard approved.
EPIRB
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