What equipment is required while operating a motorboat in Virginia?

The following safety equipment is required on all motorboats in Virginia:

- A life jacket for each person on board. The life jacket must be in good condition and of the correct size for the individual.

- A throwable flotation device. This can be a life preserver, a ring buoy, or a cushion that is at least 16 inches in diameter and has a buoyancy of at least 20 pounds.

- A fire extinguisher. The fire extinguisher must be of the ABC type and have a rating of at least 1A:10B:C.

- A horn or whistle. The horn or whistle must be audible for at least one-half mile in calm weather.

- A flashlight. The flashlight must have at least two batteries and a bulb.

- A first aid kit. The first aid kit must contain at least the following items:

- Adhesive bandages

- Antiseptic wipes

- Aspirin or ibuprofen

- Calamine lotion

- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

- Gauze pads

- Hand sanitizer

- Instant cold packs

- Scissors

- Tape

- Tweezers

- A copy of the Virginia Boating Laws and Regulations. This book can be obtained from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.

In addition to the required safety equipment, it is also a good idea to have the following items on board your boat:

- A map of the area where you will be boating.

- A compass.

- A marine radio.

- A bilge pump.

- A set of tools.

- A spare propeller.

- A fuel line wrench.

- A spark plug wrench.

- A screwdriver.

- A pair of pliers.