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An Introduction to Boating Safety Accessories

May. 22 2023 Accessory Buying Guide By PYY Marine

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If you’ve recently purchased your first boat, you’re likely looking forward to taking your first trip out on the water. However, before you leave the docks, you’ll first need to be sure that you have everything you need for a safe trip out on the water. For a list of important safety accessories, you’ll need on your first outing, be sure to read our article below.

Required Gear

Before you visit your local marine shop to load up on necessary safety gear, we encourage you to first check out local ordinances and laws regarding boat safety in your areas. You’ll find that requirements can vary quite a bit from place to place and that there are often different expectations and rules depending on the size of your boat. However, regardless of where you’re located, you’ll be required to have enough life jackets on hand for each one of your passengers, as well as a throwable flotation device if your model is over 16 feet in length. You’ll also be expected to have a fire extinguisher on deck, at least 2 sound-making devices, and some form of electric distress signal to alert those around you that you are in distress. 

Emergency Supplies

While the safety accessories listed in this section aren’t required by law, we strongly encourage you to purchase them before you take your boat on its first outing to ensure the safety of both you and your passengers. To start, we recommend finding a first-aid kit, or even making one yourself, to keep on deck at all times in case of an accident or serious injury. While you’ll already have an electric signal and sound-making devices on board to alert nearby authorities you’re in need of help, a bright neon safety flag can also be a helpful tool if you need help or want to draw the attention of other boaters. Finally, if your dash doesn’t already contain a radio, we recommend bringing one along on your first trip to help warn you of dangerous weather or other broadcasted safety warnings. 

If you’re located nearby in Annapolis, Maryland, we want to encourage you to visit us here at PYY Marine for all of your boating needs! Our convenient location in Pasadena, Maryland offers a wide variety of helpful boating accessories, parts, and services, and we’ll be happy to help you find everything you need for your first boating trip.