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 boats, constructed in a way that would entrap fumes, must have at least two ventilation ducts fitted with cowls to remove the fumes.
• If your boat is equipped with a power ventilation system, turn it on for at least four minutes both after fueling and before starting your engine.

Backfire Flame Arrestors

• Because boat engines may backfire, 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.

Mufflers

• Power-driven vessels must have a factory-type muffler or exhaust water manifold installed on the engine or another effective muffling system for noise reduction purposes.
• Excessive noise could prevent a boat operator from hearing signals and voices.
• Many South Carolina lakes also have specific laws prohibiting boats or PWCs from making excessive or disturbing levels of noise.