The BSAC recommends that all boats should carry appropriate safety equipment, according to the areas they are operating in, and those driving the boat should know how to use such equipment. This list is based on advice issued by the Royal Yachting Association to its commercially operated training schools, whose power craft have to comply with the requirements of the Department of Transport 'Nominated Departure Point Code of Practice', introduced in 1999.

The following list represents the minimum which should be carried whenever the boat is in operation on coastal or major inland open waters:

Engine ignition switches must be fitted with a 'kill cord' and it should be used at all times while under way

Personal buoyancy aids with minimum of 50 Newtons buoyancy

Alternative propulsion - oars or paddles, spare engine

Anchor and anchor line

Bucket / bailer, bilge pump

Mooring lines and spare ropes

Spare fuel and oil (premixed if appropriate) and funnel

Engine spares (spark plugs, shear pins, etc) and tools to fit them

Simple first aid kit containing wound dressings, triangular bandages, exposure blanket / bag

Distress flares - Inshore Pack (2 x orange smoke, 2 x red pinpoint or 2 x day / night flares)

Vessels with an enclosed cabin should carry a CO2 or powder fire extinguisher

Inflatable boats - 'Rampatches', bellows

Compass (diver's compass will suffice)

Vessels operating in remote sites or further offshore are advised to carry the following in addition to the above:

Greater quantity of spare fuel

More engine spares (propeller, fuel line) and tools to fit them

Spare small engine

Steering compass and navigational aids>

More comprehensive first aid kit

Distress flares - Offshore Pack (4 x red rocket/parachute, 2 x large orange smoke, 4 x red pinpoint)

All diving support vessels, wherever they are operating, should carry:

Marine VHF radio (and licensed operators)

Oxygen Administration Kit