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 Control Devices

Backfire flame control devices ensure that any engine backfire is dispersed into the atmosphere and substantially reduce the chance of explosion or fire.

• All motorboats built after April 1940, with inboard-mounted gasoline engines (this includes inboards, inboard-outboards, and airboats) must have a backfire flame control device mounted securely to each carburetor.
• Backfire flame control devices must be:
  • In good and serviceable condition and ...
  • U.S. Coast Guard–approved (must comply with SAE J-1928 or UL 1111 standards)

Mufflers

• All vessel engines must be equipped with an effective muffling device. Vessel operators may not hear sound signals or voices if the engine is not muffled adequately, and the noise is irritating to other people.
• The use of any type of exhaust cutout that allows exhaust to bypass the engine muffling system is prohibited.
• Muffling an airboat’s exhaust with automotive-style mufflers is required in Florida.