Boat & Marine Insurance

Top 5 Safety Gear Upgrades for Serious NC Boaters This Season

Wells Insurance
safety gear upgrades for serious boaters

If you’re a seasoned boater in coastal North Carolina, you know conditions can change fast — and when they do, the gear on your boat can make all the difference. Whether you fish offshore, cruise the ICW, or island-hop on the weekends, having the right safety equipment isn’t just a good idea — it could save your life.

Here are five smart safety upgrades that every serious boater should consider this season:

1. 🚨 EPIRB or PLB: When Cell Service Isn’t an Option

If you boat beyond the breakers, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is essential.

These devices send your exact location to emergency responders via satellite if you run into trouble far from shore — no cell service required.

Best for: Offshore anglers, ocean cruisers, and overnight boaters
Bonus tip: Make sure your beacon is registered with NOAA and your battery is up to date.

2. 🦺 Upgrade Your Life Jackets (and Actually Wear Them)

North Carolina law requires you to have U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets onboard — but not all life jackets are created equal.

Upgrade to:

  • Inflatable PFDs for comfort and wearability

  • High-visibility models with built-in whistles and strobes

  • Child-sized jackets designed for the proper weight and activity

💡 Want to go the extra mile? Add a D-ring tether or AIS MOB beacon for added overboard safety.

3. 🔊 VHF Radio with DSC Capabilities

Handheld or fixed-mount, a VHF radio is a boater’s lifeline when things go wrong. But don’t stop at just any model — look for one with Digital Selective Calling (DSC).

With DSC, you can instantly send a distress signal that includes your GPS location — a huge asset when time matters.

📶 Tip: Register your MMSI number and test your setup regularly.

4. 💡 All-Weather Navigation & Visibility Enhancements

Fog, storms, and dusk can turn a casual cruise into a dangerous ride. Serious boaters should consider:

  • High-output LED navigation lights

  • Spotlights or flood lights for docking and hazard detection

  • Radar reflectors for better visibility to other vessels

These upgrades help you stay safe — and seen — no matter the conditions.

5. 🧯 Fire Suppression Systems

A basic fire extinguisher might check the box for compliance, but it won’t cut it if there’s a serious onboard fire.

Invest in:

  • Automatic engine compartment suppression systems

  • Multiple extinguisher stations placed strategically around the vessel

  • Smoke and CO detectors in enclosed spaces

🧯 Fires are rare — but when they happen, you need to act fast.

Final Thoughts

Being on the water is one of the best parts of coastal life — but it demands respect and preparation. These upgrades may not be flashy, but they can mean the difference between a close call and a catastrophe.

✅ Bonus Tip: Let your insurance provider know when you add or upgrade safety gear — it may help with rates or claims.

Ready to Review Your Marine Coverage?

At Wells Marine Insurance, we work with serious boaters across North Carolina to make sure your protection matches your passion.

👉 Contact us today for a fast policy review or quote.
📞 Feel free to call our Wells Marine Manager, Jason Riley, direct as well! 910-251-5426.