SOUND SIGNALING EQUIPMENT
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
VESSELS LESS THAN 12 METERS (39.4 FEET) LONG
An efficient sound-producing device, such as an air horn or whistle is required.
VESSELS GREATER THAN 12 METERS (39.4 FEET) LONG
In addition to an airhorn or whistle a bell is required.
Unpowered boat operators are required to carry a device capable of sounding a prolonged blast for 4-6 seconds that can be heard by another boat operator in time to avoid a collision.
An athletic coach's whistle is an acceptable sound producing device for unpowered boats. It is unlawful to use a sound producing device on the water under any circumstance except a situation in which assistance is needed because of immediate or potential danger to the persons onboard or it is necessary to attract the attention of another boat.
