Preparing a powerboat or sailboat for the boating season should include a check that critical marine safety items are in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.  Here are 10 critical safety items to check for compliance for peace of mind and to ensure you avoid a fine should a vessel inspection occur: 

1. Portable fire extinguisher (e.g., Kidde) must be UL1238 approved with metal (not plastic) handle.  Extinguishers expire 12 years from manufacture date stamped or printed on bottom, regardless of whether the gauge shows green. 
2. Inspection tag on built-in fire suppression system in engine bay must be punched current within 12 months.
3. All required handheld safety flares must be current.  Flares expire 42 months from manufacture date printed on the side.  Extra, expired flares can be carried, but do not count in the required total.
4. Electronic LED flare unit must be stored together with orange daytime distress flag, not separately.  Batteries must be demonstrably functional.
5. The Y-valve for black water tank discharge must be secured closed with zip tie or padlock, or the handle removed, such that the valve cannot be turned.
6. Label tags on USCG-certified lifejackets must be legible to read the type and approval, or they do not count in the required total. 
7. USCG Type V lifejackets must be worn to be counted among required total.
8. High-powered green laser pointed into the sky is illegal if it interferes with an aircraft, even if accidental and momentary.
9. For VHF radio, FCC certification for legal maritime use must be Part 80.
10. State registration sticker on hull must be current.  (An expired sticker is frequently the motivation for USCG vessel inspection.)