Equipping Your Boat

Contrary to popular belief, the most important equipment aboard your boat is not that expensive rod and reel or the new water-skis; it's the safety equipment. For your safety, and the safety of your passengers, consult this checklist before leaving the dock.

_ Radio
_ Anchor and line
_ Fire extinguishers
_ Sound signaling device
_ Compass and chart
_ Paddle and bailer/bucket
_ Lights
_ First aid kit
_ Emergency drinking water
_ Spare batteries
_ Extra fuel
_ Personal flotation devices
_ Spare parts
_ "Skier down" signal flag