Axes

Here are the requirements for axes from the Small Vessel Regulations.

• Pleasure craft up to 12 metres (39.4 feet) in length are not required to carry an axe on board.
• Pleasure craft that are more than 12 metres in length up to 24 metres (39.4 feet to 78.7 feet) in length are required to carry one axe.

The preferred type of axe is a fireman’s axe that has a short handle and a head with a spike and a cutting edge. On pleasure craft, any type of axe is acceptable, including a hatchet.

Store axes in a readily accessible area. In an emergency, an axe can be used to cut a tow line.