Yes, yes, I know that it’s not even Thanksgiving yet. But I also know that I am starting to think about Christmas presents, and so is the rest of my family. What boat owner doesn’t need something new for the boat? And what better place to start than the Coast Guard’s own list of life-saving gifts – most of which you may already have, some you’ll need to replace, and some may be starting from scratch.
To prompt your thinking, here’s the Coast Guard’s list from last December; everything here is still valid. If the Coast Guard issues a new list, we’ll update it.
- Life Jackets. Basically, because they float and you don’t, at least not as long as they do.
- EPIRB. Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon. If you’re cruising anywhere offshore, or on a large lake, you should have one on board. They transmit emergency information to rescuers that could save your life.
- Signaling kit. Let’s hope you have one already, but you might want to upgrade.
- Marine fire extinguisher. Ditto.
- VHF radio. Fixed mount and handhelds. Ditto again.
- Nautical charts. Up-to-date digital or paper, preferably (in my humble opinion) both.
- First aid kit. Check the dates on yours. You may need a replacement.
- Seamanship book. Full disclosure: I was a contributing editor to the 67th edition of Chapman Piloting and Seamanship, so I’m prejudiced here. There are others. Read one.
- Marine GPS. The app on your cell phone or tablet may be great (I’ve used my Navionics), but you really need a fixed-mount GPS and a handheld so you can see a full screen and have a backup.
Read more: http://coastguardnews.com/coast-guard-suggests-life-saving-gift-ideas-for-boaters/2016/12/13/
