What safety equipment is typically required on most recreational boats?

Life jackets and visual distress signals are essential safety equipment typically required on most recreational boats because they directly address critical safety needs for boating. Life jackets are crucial for ensuring that all passengers on board have a means of flotation in case of an emergency, such as falling overboard or capsizing. They are designed to keep individuals afloat and reduce the risk of drowning, making them a vital component of boating safety.

Visual distress signals, which can include flares, flags, or lights, are also necessary for signaling for help in emergency situations. They are meant to alert nearby vessels or rescue teams to a person's predicament, significantly increasing the chances of a swift rescue.

While fire extinguishers and fishing gear are useful items to have on board, they do not specifically address personal safety in emergencies. Likewise, maps and compasses are valuable for navigation, but they do not contribute to safety equipment directly. Flare guns and emergency food supplies serve specific purposes, but they may not be mandated safety gear universally depending on the regulations governing boating in particular regions. Thus, the combination of life jackets and visual distress signals forms a critical baseline for safety on recreational boats.