Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Other Equipment and Regulations

Diver-Down Flag

Federal and state law requires that scuba divers and snorkelers display a diver-down flag to mark the diving area. Alabama law requires that vessel operators stay at least 100 feet from a displayed flag. Two types of flags are used to indicate diving activity.

• A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag), at least 1 meter (3.3 feet) high and visible from all directions, must be displayed on vessels on federally-controlled waters. This flag indicates that a vessel is involved in a diving activity.
• A rectangular red flag, at least 12 x 12 inches, with a white diagonal stripe is used to indicate the presence of a submerged diver in the area. Alabama law requires that divers prominently display this flag and stay within a 50-foot radius of the flag.

Illustrations	Types of Flags
	Divers Flag: A rectangular red flag with a white diagonal stripe attached to a vessel, float or buoy.
	Alfa Flag: A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag), at least 1 meter (3.3 feet) high and visible from all directions, flown from a vessel.

Scuba divers and snorkelers should not place a flag in an area already occupied by other boaters or where their diving operation will impede the normal flow of waterway traffic. Divers also should follow all of the water safety rules themselves.

Ignition Safety Switch

Alabama law requires that vessels that are less than 24 feet in length, have an open cockpit, and are powered by more than 50 horsepower, be equipped with an ignition safety switch. The lanyard of the switch must be attached to the person, clothing, or PFD of the operator.