There are so many accessories that are available on the market. These add style and value to your boat. But you need to consider the usage of the boat and your lifestyle when choosing accessories. It is best to have a checklist of items that should be kept on the boat so that you can go through and check if all of the supplies are on board before you set off.
There are essential boating accessories such as anchors, documentation, life jackets, first aid kits and additional fuel to keep on board. There is a small store in the boat to keep the items that you have. A first aid kit is very important to have on the boat in case of a medical emergency. The personnel on the boat should have a basic first aid education to offer aid in case of an emergency. Some of the basics that should be included are antihistamines, antiseptic, cotton, medication packets, band-airs, survival blankets, tapes etc. They should be marked clearly. You should have a basic tool kit that will include replacement fuses, a wrench, pliers, bolts, screw nuts, tapes etc. This will make it easy for you to fix small issues on the spot.
Marine signalling equipment are essentials that should be on any boat. These include whistles, gun flares, and radar reflectors, blow horns, handheld flares etc. These devices should be stored in an easily accessible area and they should be less than three and a half years old. You will be able to notify your current location when you are in distress. You should never use them for any other reason as it can result in financial penalties and suspension of the boat registration. If your boat is larger than 16 feet, you are required by law to carry multiple signalling equipment.
And the staff on board should have the know-how to use it. The type of anchor you use should be determined by the size of the boat. If the anchor is incorrectly sized, it will not be able to provide a sufficient hold. You need to consider the location where you are sailing as well as the depth of water you are in. It is best to go for a larger size than what you actually need. But make sure that the boat is able to withstand the weight of the anchor.
There are different floatation devices such as floating devices that can be thrown, life vests and life jackets. You need to have one personal floatation device per person on the boat. The life jackets should be located somewhere that is easily accessed and you should purchase devices that are approved by the local authorities. You should have a marine radio on board in case you need to ask for assistance from the local authorizes. These are handheld devices that will have local and international maritime pre-set frequencies. You will be able to get an idea of weather conditions as well.
So if there is a storm, you will be notified of it and you will have enough time to get away from danger.
