What equipment is legally required on board when boating on federally controlled waters in an 18-foot boat?

In federally controlled waters, specific safety equipment is mandated to ensure the safety of all individuals on board. One of the legal requirements for an 18-foot boat is to have U.S. Coast Guard-approved visual distress signals. These signals are essential for indicating a boat in distress and can be crucial for alerting other vessels and emergency responders. The use of such signals can significantly improve the chances of rescue in emergencies, making them a vital component of boating safety.

While life jackets for every passenger are also a critical safety measure, the question specifies legal requirements, and visual distress signals hold a distinct regulatory status that must be adhered to for compliance with federal regulations. Fire extinguishers and first aid kits, although important for safe boating practices, may not be explicitly required for all boats based on length and type, making the presence of visual distress signals the definitive legal obligation for the scenario described.