It's the Law: Required Equipment

Backfire Flame Arrestors    IC 14-15-2-3

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

• All powerboats (except outboards) that are fueled with gasoline must have a U.S. Coast Guard–approved backfire flame arrestor on each carburetor.
• Periodically clean the flame arrestor and check for damage.

Ventilation Systems    IC 14-15-2-2

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 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.

Mufflers    IC 14-15-2-4

All vessel engines must have a factory-installed muffler or exhaust water manifold for noise reduction or another effective muffling system. It is illegal to operate a motorboat equipped with a muffler cutout, bypass, or similar device. Vessel operators may not hear sound signals or voices if the engine is not adequately muffled.