Florida Boating Regulations
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Topic: Happenings, Arts, and Entertainment
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Category: Something Interesting for Everyone
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City: St. Pete Beach
County: Pinellas
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Metro: Tampa Bay
Region: West Central
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Florida Boating & Watersports
Florida Boating Regulations
Floatation Devices
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You must carry a PFD for each person using your boat. With the cool looks today, you won't even look goofy wearing it. |
Toss Float Safety
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One type-4 rings, horseshoe buoy, or cushion floatation device. These are the kind that are easy to toss to someone in an emergency.
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Loud Sound Tool
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The Coast Guard also requires a horn, whistle, or bell, a loud sound producing device. You need these to produce the boating communication signals required by the navigational rules.
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Boat Fire Safety
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For inboards, the boat must be build with backfire flame arrestors. Used to control fires. Like everything, USCG approved.
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Help, Help!
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Here I am! Which is accomplished with a visual distress signal. Required for day and nighttime use. Most people think of flare guns. A good choice for the recreation boater is having three hand-held red flares (day and night usage). Don't let them expire, as they must be less than 42 months of age.
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Control That Fire
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In situation a fire occurs on board, a USCG (coast guard)approved B-1 type fire extinguisher must be on the boat. Type B extinguisher are geared towards fuel fires.
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Engine Ventalization
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Since boats use fuel, a proper ventilation system must be incorporated into the boat. These let air through any closed engine and fuel compartments.
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Show Me the Light
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Lights! Yes, just like cars, boats are required to display navigation lights at night and when reduced visibility situation occur. For most boats (under 39") this means the red/green bow lights and one all-round white light.
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Tie Us Off
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Understanding rope lines and tying a few key knots are a key skill when pulling up to a pier, mooring, tying off, or when an emergency situation occurs. At least know the bowline, anchor bend,
and cleating hitch.
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Communication
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What can I say, but have your communication devices ready. If things come up, you want to already have the USCG on speed dial. VHS, backup phones, trip plans, also provide backup help. Be sure to plan your primary, secondary, and tertiary communication options.
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