Kayak Safety Lighting

Federal law requires nighttime kayakers in coastal waters to use certain types of lighting equipment. It mandates that kayaks retain visual distress signals during sunrise and sunset, when operating on coastal waters. The U.S. Coast Guard must approve all visual distress signals.

  1. Flares

    • Aerial flares can be used during the day or night. Day-use flares must emit orange smoke signals. Flares must contain a stamped expiration date. Aerial flares should be fired against the wind and should not be used while holding over the boat.

    Flashlights

    • Kayakers can attach lightweight flashlights to their flotation devices. Some lightweight, water-resistant models have an eight-hour battery-use period.

    Kayak Headlights

    • Kayakers may also choose to install headlights, which can be bolted on or attached to the kayak. Kayak headlights may assist kayakers with nighttime paddling, when visibility is low.

    Strobe Lights

    • Strobe lights have visibility up to two miles. Many types of waterproof strobe lights are available, and some have an eight-hour battery life. Some strobe lights have multicolored lenses.

    Additional Safety Gear

    • Nighttime kayakers may also wish to carry additional types of safety gears, such as whistles and reflective tape, to alert oncoming boats. Kayakers should apply reflective tape to their vessel before embarking at night. Kayakers should check all equipment before use.