Safety Inspections

Boat rangers conduct safety inspections on all Colorado waters. At a minimum, the items listed below are checked in safety inspections. You will also want to be sure your vessel complies with other equipment regulations, such as navigational lighting and appropriate water-skiing flags . Courtesy safety inspections are frequently conducted at boat ramps. You may request an inspection at any time. Inspections help ensure that your time in the water is safe and enjoyable. 
 
Motorized Vessels and Sailboats

• One U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board. The PFD must be readily accessible, serviceable and of the appropriate size. 
• A sound-producing device (whistle, horn, air horn). 
• A charged and serviceable fire extinguisher. 
• One type IV throwable PFD on board if vessel is 16 feet or longer.
• A valid registration.

Personal Watercraft (PWC)

• One U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) that is the proper size and worn by each person on board. 
• Properly attached cut-off lanyard (if equipped). 
• A sound-producing device (whistle, horn, air horn). 
• A charged and serviceable fire extinguisher. 
• A valid registration. 

Canoe, Kayak or Raft

• The vessel must be marked with owner's name and address. 
• A sound-producing device (whistle, horn, air horn). 
• One  U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board that is readily accessible, serviceable and properly sized. 
• A raft on Colorado waters must be double chambered -- it must have at least two places for inflation.