Final answer:
Boats longer than 24 meters generally need to have a marine radio, distress signals, a life raft, and a bell and whistle as part of their safety equipment. Requirements can differ by region, but these items are crucial for effective communication and emergency response at sea.
Step-by-step explanation:
Boats longer than 24 meters are subject to various safety regulations to ensure the safety of everyone aboard. These regulations can vary by jurisdiction, but generally, there are common safety equipment requirements for such vessels. These often include having a marine radio for communication, having distress signals that can be used in case of an emergency to alert nearby vessels and rescue services, and carrying a life raft to ensure passengers can stay afloat in the event the boat becomes uninhabitable or sinks. In many cases, boats of this size are also required to have sound-producing devices like a bell and whistle, which are essential for signaling in fog and other situations where visibility is impaired.
Contrary to popular belief, as exemplified in the myth mentioned, people who are drowning often can't call for help or wave their arms; they are typically silent and may not be able to attract attention effectively, making it vital for vessels to have a proper lookout and safety equipment to assist in any potential emergencies.