Although minimum requirements for operating in the US are covered in the Basic Boating Safety Course at
http://boatsafe.com ,if you are living in Canada or operating in Canadian waters you should be aware of additional requirements for your boat.
Less than 5.5 metres in length (18.0')
- 1 approved PFD (or throwable life-saving device) for each
person
- Sound signalling device
- 1 hand-bailer or manual pump
- 1 Class B-I fire extinguisher if vessel has inboard motor or
fixed fuel tank OR heating or cooking appliance that burns liquid or gas fuel.
- Lights must comply with Collision Regulations if permanently
fitted
- 2 oars with rowlocks or 2 paddles
5.5 - 8 metres in length (18.0'-26.2')
- 1 approved PFD for each person on board
- Sound signalling device
- 1 hand-bailer or manual pump
- 1 Class B-I fire extinguisher if vessel is powered or
has heating or cooking appliance that burns liquid or gas fuel.
- Lights must comply with Collision Regulations if permanently
fitted
- 1 approved lifesaving cushion or buoyant
heaving line or life buoy 508, 610 or 762 mm diameter
- 6 approved distress flares: three A, B, or C type flares AND
three A, B, C or D type flares [Except if vessel is engaged in racing and
has no beds/bunks or operating in a river, canal or lake in which the
boat can never be more than 1 nautical mile from shore, or boat is
propelled by oars or paddles].
- 2 oars with rowlocks or 2 paddles or
1 anchor with 15 m (50') rode
8 - 12 metres in length (26.2'-39.4')
- 1 approved PFD for each person on board
- 1 anchor with 15 m (50') rode
- 1 hand-bailer AND 1 manual bilge pump
- 1 Class B-II fire extinguisher if vessel is powered or
has heating or cooking appliance that burns liquid or gas fuel.
- Lights must comply with Collision Regulations if permanently
fitted
- Sound signalling device must comply with Collision
Regulations.
- 1 life buoy 610 or 762 mm diameter
- 15 metres (50') of buoyant line
- 12 approved distress flares: six A, B, or C type flares and
six A, B, C or D type flares. These are valid only for 3 1/2 years from date of