What safety devices to use on Lake Erie

[rwjacobs]

Hi,<br /><br />I was wondering if anyone could tell me what the required distress signalling devices are for Lake Erie?<br />Flags or Flares or both?<br /><br />Thanks

 

[oldboat1]

Re: What safety devices to use on Lake Erie

I think the only requirements are from the Coast Guard -- would call for a flare kit (with flares that have not reached their expiration date). But maybe there are some local guidelines.<br /><br />I fished Lake Michigan with some regularity 10 or 15 years ago, and a working VHF radio should be aboard, whether required or not (my opinion). To update at bit, you might add a cellphone to the mix.<br /><br />(If you are trying to signal another boater with flags, chances are he will be somebody like me who won't have any idea what you are "talking" about....)

 

[mikeblare]

Re: What safety devices to use on Lake Erie

Flares you must have at least three that are not expired(get the shotshell type there easier to spot when someones looking for you and keep the expired ones use them first) life vests for everyone on board, a throwable floatation, an audible signal (air horn) and a valid abc fire extinguisher. The following arent required but a darn good idea vhf radio, cell phone (you can get a signal almost everywhere on the lake) and a handheld gps unit with your place of launch co-ordinates programmed in. When the fog rolls in the gps will guide you right back home. Of course you have to lights and an anchor I think thats it but I dont have my check list in front of me. Happy boating and be careful Lake Erie changes fast always know where you are and the closest port.

 

[dug out]

Re: What safety devices to use on Lake Erie

hans007, get a copy of the Federal Boating Requirements pamplet and the State pamplet from your local marina, marine center or your local US Coast Guard Auxlliary. These are free and are given out by the local US Coast Guard Auxlliary. You could also ask the local Coast Guard Auxlliary to do a free Vessel Saftey Check (VSC) on your boat. This check will tell you what is required by Federal and State law and if you meet the requirements.<br /> I could tell you what is required in NY, since I'm in the Auxlliary and do VSC's. I don't know what is required by PA.

 

[epresutti]

Re: What safety devices to use on Lake Erie

Hans007,<br /><br />Here are three WEB sites that have safty info:<br /><br /> http://www.uscgboating.org - Coast Guard Site<br /> http://www.nasbla.org - National Association of State Boating Law Administrators<br /> http://www.safeboatingcouncil.org - National Safe Boating Council Headquarters<br /><br />Hope this helps.<br /><br />Safe boating to all.<br /><br />Cheers.<br /><br />emp.