U.S. Code of Federal Regulations
Regulations most recently checked for updates: Aug 27, 2025
(a) General. Rescue boats must be stowed—
(1) To be ready for launching in not more than 5 minutes.
(2) In a position suitable for launching and recovery;
(3) In a way that neither the rescue boat nor its stowage arrangements will interfere with the operation of any survival craft at any other launching station; and
(4) If it is also a lifeboat, in compliance with the requirements of § 199.130.
(b) Each rescue boat must have a means provided for recharging the rescue boat batteries from the vessel's power supply at a supply voltage not exceeding 50 volts.
(c) Each inflated rescue boat must be kept fully inflated at all times.