Which of the following is required on board every recreational vessel?

The requirement for personal flotation devices (PFDs) on board every recreational vessel is crucial for ensuring the safety of all individuals on the water. In Wisconsin, as in many other places, it is mandated that all recreational boats carry a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board. This regulation aims to provide an immediate safety measure in the event of an accident or unexpected incident, such as capsizing or falling overboard.

Personal flotation devices must be readily accessible, and they should be appropriate for the weight and size of the wearers. Ensuring that all individuals aboard have a PFD increases the likelihood of survival in case of an emergency, significantly reducing the risk of drowning.

While fire extinguishers are important safety equipment on some vessels, they are not universally required for all recreational boats; the need for one depends on the size and type of the vessel. Similarly, a paddle or oar is not mandated for every boating scenario but is strongly recommended for certain types of boats and situations. A flown flag, while it may be used for signaling or showing boat status, is not a requirement for compliance with safety regulations. Thus, the presence of personal flotation devices on all recreational vessels underscores a fundamental safety practice necessary for safe boating