What must vessels operating in federally controlled waters be equipped with?

Vessels operating in federally controlled waters are required to be equipped with U.S. Coast Guard approved visual distress signals. These signals are crucial for safety, as they allow boaters to signal for help and indicate distress in emergency situations. The presence of approved visual distress signals, such as flares or signal flags, ensures that a vessel can effectively communicate its need for assistance to nearby boats or search and rescue personnel.

While other items such as navigational charts, communication devices, and wind direction indicators are important for safe and effective boating, the requirement specifically emphasizes the necessity of visual distress signals. This is because these signals are standardized and recognized protocols for indicating a vessel in trouble, making them essential for promoting safety on the water.