Boat Safety Equipment

Whether it’s your first time heading out on the water, or you’re a seasoned on-water expert, ensuring you have the correct boat safety equipment in your vessel is essential to ensuring the safety of everyone on board.

While the safety equipment regulations vary between states, we’ve compiled everything you need to know to ensure your vessel is safe and compliant on the water.

The Importance of Having the Correct Boating Equipment On Board

Boat safety equipment is not only essential to carry on board, but it's legally required. Each piece of safety equipment is designed to aid you in the event of an emergency and can be potentially lifesaving when used correctly. Failing to carry the right equipment can not only result in hefty fines but can put the lives of every passenger on board at risk.

Before heading out on the water, check the requirements of your local boat safety authority and ensure you’re properly prepared for a day out on the water.

What Boat Safety Equipment Do You Need?

There are several safety items that you’re required to store on board your vessel. Requirements vary depending on the state you’re boating in, the size of your vessel, water conditions, distance from shore and more, so checking with your local safety authority is imperative.

For example, while all passengers under the age of 10 must wear a life jacket at all times in Victoria, this age extends to those under the age of 12 for those boating in Queensland and New South Wales. Similarly, while flares aren’t required when navigating smooth waters in Queensland, they are compulsory to have on board when boating in Victoria, regardless of your distance from shore.

As boating regulations and conditions are subject to change, ensure you stay up to date with the following regulations for your vessel size and the boating conditions you plan on navigating.

Victoria Boating Regulations
Western Australia Boating Regulations
Queensland Boating Regulations
South Australia Boating Regulations
New South Wales Boating Regulations
Tasmania Boating Regulations
Australian Capital Territory Boating Regulations
Northern Territory Boating Regulations

Types of Boat Safety Equipment

Depending on the size of your vessel and the area you plan on navigating, you may be required to carry specific boat safety equipment. Additionally, you may want to carry extra safety items in case of an emergency or to cater to the unique needs of your passengers. Common on-board safety items include but are not limited to:

EPIRBs or PLBs: In the event you require rescue or assistance, EPIRBs can be used to communicate your exact location with authorities.

Flares: In the event you need to signal for help, flares can be used to attract attention from nearby vessels or to alert authorities of your area.

Buoyant Torch: In the event of an emergency, buoyant torches can be used to navigate around your vessel in the dark.

Fire Equipment: In the event of a fire on board your vessel, fire equipment can be used to extinguish flames.

V-Sheet: A V-Sheet is a distress signal that can be used to attract the attention of other vessels and indicate to them that you require assistance.

Life Jackets: In the event any passengers are thrown overboard or are forced to evacuate the vessel, life jackets will keep them upright and floating.

Anchors: In the event you need to remain where you are located, anchors can keep your vessel in place during high winds and changing conditions.

Bilge Pump: In the event your vessel is taking on water, bilge pumps can be used to drain excess water and keep your vessel afloat.

Marine Radios: In the event you need to communicate with local authorities or other vessels on the water, marine radios can transmit messages..

At Bias Boating, we stock all the necessary safety equipment you need to keep your vessel safe and compliant. For life jackets, navigation, anchors and more, shop our collection.