The previously posted CA boating regulation was for powerboats. The appropriate section for most beach cats is:
Visual Distress Signals (Coastal Waters Only): Boats less than 16 feet,
manually propelled craft of any size, sailboats under 26 feet — of completely
open construction and not equipped with propulsion machinery, and boats
competing in an organized marine parade, regatta, race, or similar event are
only required between sunset and sunrise to carry aboard devices that are
suitable for night use (see page 43).
That's specifically regarding nighttime use.
That's the next paragraph just after the one I posted. You are only required to carry devices suitable for night unless you meet those criteria (which, yes, most of our cats do). It's my understanding of the law that you still have to carry a device suitable for DAY use.
I've scooped a lot of guys out of the water that were very close to death from Hypothermia. It just makes sense to me to better my chances of survival by carrying a few simple, inexpensive safety devices regardless of the nuances of the law.
Our local Harbor Patrol empowered the lifeguard on the beach where we launch to check for flares and a radio at their discretion. No safety gear, no launch.
Did they ever find that missing cat sailor off of Santa Barbara a few months back?
