Boating Safety
Boating Safety Checklists
Required by Law
- Approved wearable flotation device for each person readily accessible
- Additional throwable flotation device on boats over 16 feet
- Persons 12 and under must wear a life jacket unless the boat is anchored or docked
- Fire extinguisher if fuel tank or engine is enclosed
- Running lights after sunset or during restricted visibility
- State registration card on board
- Registration number and validation sticker displayed
- Do not operate a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Observe navigation rules
- Do not overload boat
- Sound signaling device
Other Items
- Do not occupy ramp until boat is ready to launch
- Notify others of your schedule
- Obtain weather forecasts
- Navigation charts
- Bail bucket
- Anchor and line
- Paddle and extra plug
- Secure boat to trailer after loading
- Trailer lights
- Reduce speed at night
- Check for gasoline fumes
- Motor kill switch
- 170 degree wide-angle rear view mirror
Boating Division
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
State 1-800-799-4890
Life Jackets Float. You Don't. Always wear your Life Jacket!
80% of drowning victims in boating accidents were not wearing a personal flotation device.
