What is one responsibility of a boat operator regarding safety gear?

The responsibility of ensuring that all safety gear is in good working condition is a crucial aspect of boating safety. This obligation involves regularly checking equipment like life jackets, fire extinguishers, and flares to confirm they are functional and meet safety standards. When safety gear is properly maintained, it significantly enhances the overall safety of both the operator and the passengers in the event of an emergency.

We're tasked with being proactive about safety; thus, it's not sufficient to have the bare minimum of safety equipment or to hide supplies from passengers. In fact, safety gear needs to be accessible and visible to anyone on board to facilitate a timely response in emergencies. Furthermore, while passengers indeed should be educated about the safety equipment onboard and how to use it, safety gear should not be limited solely to their use. Boat operators have a duty to ensure that they themselves know how to use all safety equipment and can assist their passengers in the event of an emergency.