What safety equipment is mandatory on commercial vessels over 26 feet?

The requirement for safety equipment on commercial vessels over 26 feet is crucial for ensuring the safety of all aboard. Life jackets are essential for providing buoyancy and increasing the chances of survival in case of a vessel capsizing or people falling overboard. Fire extinguishers are necessary for dealing with onboard fires, which can quickly become life-threatening, especially if not managed promptly. Flares are vital in distress situations, allowing vessels to signal for help and increase visibility to rescuers.

In contrast, while a compass is useful for navigation, it is not classified as mandatory safety equipment. Fishing gear, though necessary for commercial fishing vessels, does not fit the safety equipment category, and having a first aid kit, while important, is not sufficient alone to meet safety regulations. Thus, the collection of life jackets, fire extinguishers, and flares collectively represents the essential safety equipment that must be onboard to protect lives and facilitate emergency responses on commercial vessels exceeding 26 feet.