It's the Law: Required Equipment

Ventilation Systems

The purpose of ventilation systems is to avoid explosions by removing flammable gases. Properly installed ventilation systems greatly reduce the chance of a life-threatening explosion.

• All gasoline-powered vessels, constructed in a way that would entrap fumes, must have at least two ventilation ducts fitted with cowls to remove the fumes.
• If your vessel is equipped with a power ventilation system, turn it on for at least four minutes both after fueling and before starting your engine.
• If your vessel is not equipped with a power ventilation system (for example, a personal watercraft), open the engine compartment and sniff for gasoline fumes before starting the engine.

Backfire Flame Arrestors

Backfire flame arrestors are designed to prevent the ignition of gasoline vapors in case the engine backfires.

• All powerboats except outboards that are operating on federally controlled waters and are fueled with gasoline must have a backfire flame arrestor on each carburetor. The arrestors must be U.S. Coast Guard–approved (must comply with SAE J-1928 or UL 1111 standards).
• It is also strongly recommended that these vessels be equipped with backfire flame arrestors if on state waters.

Mufflers

• It is strongly recommended that all vessel engines have an effective muffling system.
• The use of dry stack headers or pipes extending directly from the engine of a motorboat that does not have any type of muffler is prohibited except for motorboats competing in an authorized marine event.