As in every state, Florida requires seafarers to have a number of safety equipment on board their vessels to keep passengers and other vessels safe. Obviously, one size does not meet all the requirements for ship safety equipment, so Florida has grouped its ship size requirements. There are four classes, ranging from Class A ships to Class 1, 2, and 3 ships.
We'll highlight the high requirements as a brief summary. However, we recommend checking the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission website for more information on how to prepare your vessel for the high seas.
USCG - approved personal flotation device for each person on board.
USCG-approved fire extinguisher(s) if you’re vessel has a motor.
Visual distress signal, required when boating on the high sea, in coastal waters, or at night.
Audible alert device, like a horn or whistle.
Backfire flame control.
Ventilation requirements vary based on whether the boat was built before or after 1980.
Navigation lights, to be displayed at night or in low visibility conditions.
In addition to this required equipment, the Florida Wildlife Commission recommends each vessel have an anchor with an appropriate amount of anchor line. They also suggest you have some sort of propulsion devices like an oar or a paddle if your motor fails. Lastly, they encourage boaters to have a bilge pump or some sort of dewatering device to help in the event their vessel begins to flood.
Compliance with Florida ship safety equipment requirements is important to avoid accidents. Make sure your boat is well equipped before you put it in the water.
We are experts in marine transportation but we also specialize in the salvage, re-floating, recovery and removal of vessels in the continental United States. Please contact us to discuss your boating needs 954-593-1490 or request a Free Quote.
