All boats operating on Michigan waters must carry and, if required, have in operation, acceptable personal flotation devices (PFDs), visual distress signals, fire extinguishers, sounding devices, backfire flame arrestor, ventilation systems, and navigation lights as required by federal law.
What safety equipment is required on a boat in Michigan?
Boating Information Required Equipment Checklist
| Required Equipment Checklist | PWC | Boat 16′ but less than 26′ |
|---|---|---|
| Boaters Safety Certificate | Yes – *1 | Yes – *1 |
| Certificate of Number Onboard | Yes | Yes |
| Validation Decal Displayed | Yes | Yes |
| Life Jackets (PFD’s): Type I, II, or III | Yes – *2 | Yes – *3 |
What size of boat requires flares?
Sailboats and powerboats over 6 metres and up to 9 metres (19.7 feet to 29.5 feet) in length must have: 6 type A, B*, or C flares and… A watertight flashlight.
Do you need flares on Lake Michigan?
Visual distress signals, commonly referred to as flares, also are required by both Wisconsin and federal boating laws while on the outlying waters. These come in a variety of shapes and sizes. However, the basic requirement is that a boat is equipped with both day and night signaling devices.
What is the minimum amount of flares required on a boat?
To meet carriage requirements, you must have at least three un-expired flares aboard. You may carry expired flares as back up, but they will not count towards the legal requirement.
Can you drink alcohol on a boat in Michigan?
While passengers on a boat are legally allowed to drink, excessive alcohol consumption can be dangerous. First, drunk passengers who are loud or disorderly can distract the boat driver and cause an accident.
Can you get a DUI on a kayak in Michigan?
The answer to this question is yes, you can get a DUI on a kayak in Michigan. There are no specific laws in Michigan that address the issue of drinking and kayaking, but the state does have laws that prohibit operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol.
Which pleasure craft must carry flares?
Pleasure craft 6 metres (19.7 feet) or less in length and equipped with a motor must have: 3 type A, B*, C, or D flares (no more than 1 type D) or… A watertight flashlight.
What must you have on a boat?
Check out this list of 10 things you need on a boat that includes some standard boating must-haves for any boat type.
- List of Important Boat Essentials. License and Registration.
- License and Registration.
- Life Jackets.
- Fire Extinguishers.
- Visual Distress Signals and EPIRB.
- Flashlight.
- Anchor and Rode.
- First Aid Kit.
How many years are flares valid for?
four years
All flares should be stored in a watertight container, in a cool dry location. Flares are valid for four years from date of manufacture, and should be disposed of after that time.
What kind of flares do you need on Lake Michigan?
If operating at night, one electric distress light or three combination day/night red flares are required.
Do I need a horn on my boat in Michigan?
SOUND PRODUCING DEVICES: To comply with Navigation Rules and for distress signaling purposes all boats must carry a sound producing device (whistle, horn, siren, etc.) capable of a 4-second blast audible for ½ mile. Boats larger than 65.6 ft.
What size boat do you need on Lake Michigan?
While freshwater boats don’t usually need to be massive, boating on the Great Lakes is somewhat really testing. Technically, you can go out on Lake Michigan in boats that are 16 feet long on calm days; however, it’s best to go out on something closer to 23 feet long, especially if you plan on crossing Lake Michigan.
Can you have expired flares on a boat?
Flares expire after 42 months and must be replaced to meet the USCG’s carriage requirements. Simply throwing expired flares in the trash would be an environmental and health hazard as they contain highly toxic chemicals such as perchlorate.
How many distress flares do you need on a boat?
If pyrotechnic devices are selected, a minimum of three must be carried. Any combination can be carried as long as they add up to three signals for day use and three signals for night use. Three day/night signaling devices meet both requirements.
What determines the number and type of distress flares required on board a pleasure boat?
The size of the pleasure craft determines the equipment required.
What are the new boating laws in Michigan?
The new federal law mandates that every operator of a leisure boat under 26 feet in length with a 3-horsepower engine or greater that was manufactured on or after Jan. 1 2020 must have an equipped engine cut-off switch.
Is insurance required on a boat in Michigan?
Even though Michigan law doesn’t require boat insurance, it may still be necessary if you plan to dock your boat — many marinas require proof of insurance. Lenders also typically require a set amount of coverage if you’re financing your boat.
How late can you be on a boat in Michigan?
Personal watercraft laws in Michigan include: Operators must wear a lanyard-type engine cut-off on their vest. This shuts down the engine in the event the operator falls off. Operators can’t ride a personal watercraft after sunset and before 8 a.m.
Can you drink beer in a kayak in Michigan?
Home > Beers > Am I Allowed To Drink Beer In Kayak In Michigan? It is not illegal to drink from the water in Michigan. Both passengers and the operator of the vessel are allowed to come and go with a bottle or two open.
Can you drink while driving a boat?
It is illegal to drink and operate a boat
According to the US Coast Guard, alcohol is involved in nearly half of all boating deaths. Boat Ed reports that the legal limit for all 50 states ranges from 0.05% to 0.08% blood alcohol content (BAC) if you are caught drinking and operating a boat.