The safety schedule is the state's opinion of what you'd need on a bad day.
Your opinion, based on the waters you actually run, may be more generous — and should be.
Nobody ever survived because their gear was 'just compliant'.
What Varies
Requirements change with water type (smooth, partially smooth, open) and vessel size. Life jackets, flares, EPIRB, V-sheet, bailer, torch, anchor and rode, first aid, fire extinguisher — the mix depends on where you're allowed to operate.
What Doesn't Change
Life jackets that fit. Communications that work. Something to attract attention. Something to signal position. Something to stop the boat sinking long enough to get help. Everything else is refinement.
Serviceable Beats Compliant
Expired flares tick the box on a checklist but may not fire when it matters. Batteries in EPIRBs die. Life jackets stored damp grow mould. Check dates. Check gas cylinders. Check zips.
- Life jackets belong out and accessible, not stowed at the back of a locker.
- Test the EPIRB and torch every trip.
- Rotate flares before the expiry date, not after.
- Could every person aboard find, fit and inflate a jacket in the dark?
- When did you last actually deploy your safety gear in a drill?
- Do you carry more than the schedule says — or exactly?
- The safety schedule is a floor, not a target.
- Serviceable gear beats compliant gear.
- Practise finding and using equipment before you need it.