Beyond wearing life jackets, recreational boats commonly need safety equipment that helps you signal for help, communicate with others, and handle a small fire. The three items typically required are a visual distress signal, a sound signaling device, and a fire extinguisher if your vessel size or area demands one. A visual distress signal is essential so you can attract attention from rescuers if you’re in trouble, and it must meet regulations (often USCG-approved) and be kept current. A sound signaling device, like a whistle or horn, lets you announce your presence to nearby boats and can be used to signal distress, especially in low visibility. A fire extinguisher is included because fires on a boat can start quickly and spread; having the right extinguisher and knowing how to use it is part of staying safe, and some boats are required to carry one depending on their design and where they operate. These elements focus on signaling and immediate response to emergencies, which is why they are the standard beyond PFDs. Other items—radar, GPS, and a VHF radio—are highly beneficial for navigation and communication but are not universally required for all recreational boats. A life raft and emergency beacon are typically needed for offshore or larger vessels, and an anchor, while practically important, is not a universal regulatory requirement beyond PFDs in many areas.