What is required for all vessels that have children on board?

The requirement for all vessels that have children on board is to have throwable devices readily available. This is particularly important for safety reasons: throwable devices, such as throwable flotation cushions or lifebuoys, are crucial in emergency situations where someone may fall overboard. These devices can be tossed to a person in the water, providing them with immediate flotation assistance while awaiting rescue.

It is essential to ensure that vessels are equipped to handle situations that may arise, particularly when children are aboard, as they may be less experienced swimmers and more vulnerable in emergencies. Having throwable devices is part of general boating safety practices aimed at protecting all passengers onboard.

While other safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, life jackets for adults, and emergency flares, are also important, the specific focus here is on the safety of children, making throwable devices a key requirement when they are present on a vessel.