Is Your Boat Ready for Spring?

Now is the time to start thinking about a new boating season on the lake. It’s also a great time to make sure your boating safety equipment is complete and current!

All vessels must carry a US Coast Guard–approved wearable life jacket for each person on board, and children under 13 are required to wear one while the boat is underway. Life jackets must not have any punctures or tears and the label must be legible. Boats 16 feet and longer must also have a throwable flotation device readily accessible.

In addition to life jackets, most motorized boats, including personal watercraft, must carry a properly sized fire extinguisher. Check that it’s fully charged and not more than 12 years old (the date of manufacture is usually stamped on the bottom). A sound-producing device, such as a whistle or horn, is required for all vessels to signal intentions or emergencies. Navigation lights are mandatory when operating between sunset and sunrise. While not legally required on inland waters, visual distress signals like an orange flag, flares, or an SOS strobe light are highly recommended.

Virginia law also requires boats to display current registration numbers and carry proof of registration on board. Volunteers from the US Power Squadron or US Coast Guard Auxiliary can provide a courtesy inspection to help you stay compliant with Virginia law. By ensuring the proper safety gear is onboard before departure, you can better protect yourself and everyone enjoying the water.