The Coast Guard regards paddlboards as vessels and has safety requirements. Here is the equipment required if you are using a paddleboard:
- USCG- Approved Life Jacket- The paddleboard must have a life jacket for each person. You do not need one if you are in a designated swimming, surfing or sunbathing area.
- Sound-Producing Device- Such as a horn or whistle must be on board while on the water. The device must make a sound heard from at last 1/2 nautical mile.
- Flashlight or Lantern- If you are operating in limited visibility at night, you also will need a flashlight or lantern that produces light. It should be displayed to approaching vessels in enough time to prevent a collision. The light does not have to be continually displayed.
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