If something goes wrong, there are a number of items that can help searchers and rescuers find you and come to your aid.
Personal flotation devices, visual distress signals and sound producing devices, in addition to an emergency beacon (EPIRB) registered to your vessel with updated trip information that will be available to search and rescue teams are some of the key items to prepare for an emergency situation.
Keeping a personal locator beacon (PLB) registered to an individual can also be the difference between life and death.
According to NOAA, PLBs helped save the lives of 122 individuals in the USA in 2016 alone.
Unlike EPIRBS, PLBs are devices that you carry, and they can only be activated by hand.
Once activated, they send out distress signals to help rescuers pinpoint your location.
As with EPIRBs, registering your PLB is key.
Even though a float plan isn’t necessary for an afternoon on the water, the US Coast Guard suggests telling someone where you’re going and when you are due back.
But when it comes to lengthier boat trips, it’s recommended that you make a written float plan, including a description of your boat, an inventory of the people and safety equipment on board, your location and your expected time of arrival.
Give a copy of the float plan to a loved one and keep them updated on your progress throughout the trip.
Read more here:
https://www.sarsat.noaa.gov/emerbcns.html
USA beacon registration: https://www.sarsat.noaa.gov/emerbcns.html
International Beacon Registration Database (IBRD): http://www.cospas-sarsat.int/en/774-registering-your-beacon
USA Coast Guard guide to boating safety: https://www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/Boaters-Guide-to-Federal-Requirments-for-Recreational-Boats.pdf