Safety Gear 101: What Every Boater Should Have Onboard

When you're out on the water, fun should always come with a side of safety. Whether you're cruising across a lake or anchoring at your favorite sandbar, having the right safety gear onboard isn't just smart — it's often the law.

At Ark Marine Company, we’re not just here to repair and restore boats — we’re here to keep you, your passengers, and your vessel safe and ready for whatever the open water throws your way. So let’s break down what you must have, what you should have, and how to make sure it’s all ready when you need it most.

Required by Law: The Essentials You Can’t Skip

Before you even leave the dock, your boat should be stocked with the bare minimum safety equipment required by the U.S. Coast Guard (and possibly your state DNR).

Here’s what’s legally required on most recreational boats:

Fire Extinguishers

• Must be marine-rated and accessible

• At least one for boats with enclosed compartments or engines

• Check expiration and pressure regularly

Life Jackets (PFDs)

• One U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket per person

• Must be the correct size and type for the activity

• Children under a certain age (varies by state) must wear one at all times

• A throwable Type IV device (like a cushion or ring) is often required, too

Visual Distress Signals (Flares, flags, etc.)

• Required for coastal waters, the Great Lakes, and most large bodies of water

• Must be unexpired and USCG-approved

Sound-Producing Devices

• Whistle, horn, or bell — something to signal distress or alert others in low visibility

Pro Tip: We offer inspections to make sure your required gear is compliant, unexpired, and in good working condition. Because a dead flare helps no one.

Recommended Extras: Because Murphy’s Law Loves Boats

The minimum keeps you legal. But the smart boaters pack a few more essentials — because real-life emergencies don’t care about checklists.

Marine VHF Radio

• Critical for calling for help when cell service fails

• Channel 16 is the universal distress channel

• Consider a handheld backup if your fixed radio fails

First Aid Kit

• Stocked with waterproof bandages, antiseptics, motion sickness meds, tweezers, and more

• Make sure it's accessible and up-to-date

Basic Tool Kit

• Screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, zip ties, electrical tape, and fuses

• Enough to do minor repairs or limp back to the dock

Backup Battery or Jump Pack

• Dead batteries are one of the top reasons boats get stranded

• A compact lithium jump starter can be a game-changer

 Emergency Supplies

• Flashlight (with spare batteries), duct tape, knife, bailing device, rope

• Extra water, snacks, sunscreen — comfort matters in emergencies too

Optional, but recommended: A paddle. (Yes, even on a pontoon — ask us how we know.)

Storage & Maintenance: Don’t Just Throw It in a Locker

Proper safety gear doesn’t do any good if it’s buried under six beach towels, expired, or rusted shut.

Here’s how to keep it ready:

• Store gear in clearly marked, waterproof containers

• Label everything — especially first aid and flares

• Check gear at the start and end of each season

• Replace damaged or expired items immediately

• Keep essential items within quick reach (not buried in a seat compartment)

We can help you organize and evaluate your current setup — just ask during your next service visit.

Annual Safety Checks: Put It on the Calendar

Just like oil changes and impeller inspections, safety gear should be checked at least once a year. Here’s a quick checklist to follow:

• Test your VHF radio

• Inspect your fire extinguishers

• Try on every life jacket — especially kids' sizes

• Restock your first aid kit

• Check all expiration dates (especially flares)

• Check tools for rust and corrosion

• Charge or replace batteries in flashlights and jump packs

Want a professional once-over? Book a Safety Gear Inspection with Ark Marine and we’ll go through your setup to ensure you’re not caught off guard when it matters most.

Peace of Mind Is the Best Accessory on Your Boat

Having the right safety gear isn’t just about rules — it’s about responsibility. Your passengers trust you to be prepared, and we’re here to help make sure you are.

Whether you need a gear check, replacements, or help organizing your setup, Ark Marine Company has your back — because when you’re out on the water, confidence and preparation are everything.

Safety isn’t optional — it’s part of the adventure. Let’s make sure you’re ready.