SUPREME S21 - Page 61

Section 3
3-36
• Attach a plastic safety whistle to the life jacket. Teach the child how to use the
whistle, and practice using it and signaling for help.
Note: Inflatable USCG-approved life jackets are not to be used by persons
under the age of 16.
Audible Distress Signaling Devices
Audible (sound) distress signals are required to be on-board all boats. 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.
For specific on-board requirements, see U.S. Coast Guard Minimum On-Board
Personal Safety Equipment Required on page 3-32 and for usage information, see
Audible Distress Signals on page 7-1.
Visual Distress Signaling Devices
Boats less than 16 feet (4.9 meters) must have USCG-approved Visual Distress
Signals (VDS) on-board when operating between sunrise and sunset in coastal
waters, including ocean bays, gulfs and sounds, as well as the Great Lakes, seas,
bays and river mouths that are 2 or more miles wide and only to the point
proceeding inland where the water narrows to less than 2 miles. Visit the U.S.
Coast Guard website for additional information on specific VDS requirements for
your boat.
Ensure all passengers on-board understand how to operate all VDS. Keep VDS in
a readily accessible area and within immediate reach at all times when boating.
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