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Chapter 2: Boating Safety

Visual Distress Signals: Storage and Care

To keep the VDS in good condition, store them in a watertight container to prevent wear and tear. Keep the box readily accessible, mark it "distress signals," and paint it either red or orange. These steps make it apparent where the box is and what is within it to all passengers. Be sure to keep all VDS signals safely stored away from children.

As for the visual distress signals themselves, ensure that they are not punctured, damaged or past their expiration date. A device that is expired or in poor condition does not meet Federal Regulations. Make checking the condition of your VDS a part of your periodic and pre-departure check-ups.

Visual Distress Signals: Storage and Care