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Requirements that are state or local are best answered by the state or local agency, since we have no comprehensive,
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PFD Speed Rating For PWC , posted: 5/14/2012
Question: Is a PFD for a PWC operator required to be strength tested to 100mph if the PWC can exceed 50mph? Most life vests are rated at 50mph, but my ski will exceed 60mph.
Answer: Yes for a PWC to be awarded the VSC decal, the PFD must be strength tested for 100 MPH. Keep in mind, that is the test of the PFD and you don't want to think of that rating as a "human safety" function as the label states "Not tested for personal protection from impact."
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Capacity of Boat , posted: 5/12/2012
Question: I need the weight and motor specs and size on a 1968 bonito 14ft any info would be great.
Answer: For the capacity of your boat:
If the boat does not have a capacity plate, the following formula would be used:
Boat length multiplied by boat width divided by 15
(L x W/15)=
Number of people that can be safely carried in calm waters.
A suitable motor for the size of the boat:
15 - 20 hp (80-120 lbs)
Powerful workhorses that are still considered a part of the small outboard hp class. Outboard engines in this hp range are available primarily in 4-stroke configurations but may limited availability in 2-stroke configurations. Due to 2006 EPA regulations, outboard manufacturers are now required to build cleaner more efficient engines that meet strict emission standards. This hp range is quite popular for use with inflatable boats 10-14ft, aluminum fishing boats 12-16ft, jon boats 12-16ft in length, fiberglass boats 12-16ft in length. These hulls typically require a 15” short shaft length but may require a 20” shaft length as you approach 16ft in length. These hulls typically range in weight from 125-575+ lbs.
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Visual Distress Signals on Inland Waters , posted: 5/9/2012
Question: What are the requirements (Federal and Florida) for carrying visual distress signals for inland waters where the point meeting the coastal waters is less than 2 miles.
Answer: Both are the same, signals are not required on inland waters.
However, it is recommended, even though not required, that boats operating on inland waters should have some means of making a suitable day and night distress signal. The number and type of signals is best judged by considering conditions under which the boat will be operating.
You need to remember, you may have a problem where your engine quits and cannot be restarted and with weather conditions, drift out into open waters with catastrophic results if you have no signals to fall back on. Even in inland protected waters, you could end up spending a very uncomfortable night on the waters without being seen. Without lights on a vessel, you also can be the victim of another boat running into you in the darkness as well. It all comes down to common sense.
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PFDs Required for Six Pack Charter Boat , posted: 5/8/2012
Question: On a 27ft or 30ft charter boat fishing inland waters, what type pfd is needed? will a regular type II with no reflectives on it be acceptable?
Answer: This is outside of the purview of our VSCs for personal pleasure craft but a web search did find your answer. See this PDF file that has the rules for six pack charter boats:
http://www.uscg.mil/pvs/docs/UPV%20JOBAID%20REV5%20OCT07.pdf
Page 16 covers the PFDs and as far as I can see, there is no requirement for reflective material.
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Visual Distress Signals Expired? , posted: 5/5/2012
Question: Do rescue flares that expire in, for example, October require replacement on October 1 or October 31?
Answer: They would be good to the end of the month. But we suggest that you keep them as "backups" or "spares" in addition to the new replacements that you buy as if you are not seen with the new distress signals, you will have others to use as they still may work after the expiration depending on prior exposure to moisture. If they do look like they are leaking, becoming discolored, you should dispose of them. Contact your local fire department for their policy on disposal.
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