Safety Gear

Selecting the right equipment can and will make your outing on the water that much more comfortable, though choosing the appropriate equipment can inevitably save your life. Those items that are mandated by the United States Coast Guard for operation of a “vessel under oars” include:

* Personal Flotation Devices (PFD)
* Sound Producing Device
* Visual Distress Signal (Between sunset & sunrise and periods of reduced visibility)
* Navigational Lights (Between sunset & sunrise and periods of reduced visibility)

These items meet only the minimum requirements of the United States Coast Guard, and should not be the only equipment carried onboard while operating a kayak in open water. Additional recommended items to consider are listed below. Your own list might include additional items that are specific to your activity and locale.

Communication

* VHF Radio
* Cell Phone
* Radio (w/Weather band)

Navigation

* Charts
* GPS
* Compass

Signaling Devices

* Flashlight
* Flares
* Dye marker
* Smoke
* Signal Mirror
* Reflective Tape
* Flag
* Air Horn
* Whistle

Vessel Accessories

* Internal Flotation
* Spare Paddle
* Paddle Float
* Paddle Leash
* Bilge Pump
* Sponge
* Dry Bags
* Gear Leashes
* Bow line
* Anchor
* Drift Chute



Personal

* First Aid Kit
* Dried Food
* Water
* Sun Protection
o Sun Screen
o Long sleeve shirt
o Hat
o Sun glasses
* Extra Clothing
* Foot Protection
* Towels

Other

* Filed Float Plan
* Weather Forecast
* Sonar/Fish Finder
* Survival Knife
* Pliers
* Multipurpose tool
* Duck tape
* Zip ties
* Rope
* Rags
* Batteries
* Shackles/D-rings

source: http://www.hobiecat.c...afety.html