What safety devices are required for air boats

[Glenn Hutchinson]

I don't have any airboats to look at where I live and don't know what is required, kill switches, fire extinguishers, floatation devices, horns , where do you mount running lights. Are their any requirements which are unique to airboats. I wouldn't ask these seemingly mondane questions but I'm sure my local marine police and conservation officers would be of little help with this, and I would like to know where I stand before I get pulled over and hasseled. You know when they see something different they will be very curious! Thanks Glenn

 

[Olf Art]

Glenn, look up an office in AL for the USCG (Coast Guard) and talk with them. My airboat has to meet CG specs up here where I run in N. Florida. This is all navigable waterway and is patrolled by them.

All of my dealings with them have been very professional and courteous, and if you're good to go with the Coast Guard you'll be able to run your boat anywhere you want to go.

 

[Glenn Hutchinson]

I'm totally landlocked so the coast guard would likely be of little help, but I may check anyway, as I seem to have little other choice! But thanks just the same, Glenn

 

[Whitebear]

Yup, CG has the say so. There are inland rules and off shore rules. Be sure to remind them exactly where you are.

Scotty

 

[harvey]

Glenn, Over here in GA it's the Dept. of Natural Resources---I don't know if it's the same in AL?

 

[Daddy Dave]

Glen,

USCG rules for required vessel safety equipment are the normal and customary standard for required equipment. Navigation lights - red and green bow lights and a 360 degree stern running and anchor light - are standard - no changes among individual states. The requirement for a USCG approved throwable flotation device, personal flotation devices, fire extinguisher and flares are also standardized with the USCG as the only recognized certifier of these devices. Some states my require a paddle for smaller hulls or an anchor and line - some do not. The USCG has specific distances at which navigational lights must be visible and they have control over whether or not a fire extinguisher is considered charged, flares are considered current or PFDs are acceptable - no fabric tears or wear throughs.