What are the Mandatory Kayak Accessories/Equipment in USA?

What are the Mandatory Kayak Accessories/Equipment in USA?

In the United States boating regulations vary from state to state, but on a national level the US Coast Guard requires that:·   

  1.   All recreational boats must carry one wearable, readily-accessible, in good condition, USCG-approved personal floatation device for each person on board. Children 12 years old and younger must wear a PFD at all times.
  2. Your kayak must include a system to signal your presence such as flares, signal mirror or flashlight.
  3. All recreational vessels - including kayaks - are required to display navigational lights between sunset and sunrise and during other periods of reduced visibility such as fog, rain or haze.
  4. The USCG, working with affiliated local organizations, offers all small craft owners a free, annual Vessel Safety Check (VSC). An educational procedure rather than an enforcement of the law, the VSC helps increase everyone’s safety in small craft boating.

For up-to-date United States Coast Guard Regulations visit: http://www.uscgboating.org

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