What safety equipment is required on a boat that is less than 16 feet in length?

For boats less than 16 feet in length, one of the essential pieces of safety equipment required is a paddle or oar. This requirement is important because a paddle or oar can provide critical propulsion or maneuvering capability in case of an emergency, such as engine failure. It allows boaters to navigate or steer away from hazardous situations.

Additionally, while life jackets are indeed mandatory for all occupants, having a paddle or oar ensures that the boat can be navigated safely in unforeseen circumstances. This equipment is crucial for small boats that may be used in areas where engines could easily fail or require assistance in reaching shore.

In this context, although the other options are also significant safety considerations, they do not specifically address the requirement tailored for smaller boats as effectively as a paddle or oar. A fire extinguisher, while important, is often necessary for larger vessels, and an anchor and rope, while useful, are not mandated for all small boats under the same regulations governing emergency propulsion.