What item is required to be carried by a 14-foot powerboat during nighttime operation?

During nighttime operation, a 14-foot powerboat is mandated to carry navigation lights. These lights are crucial for ensuring that the vessel is visible to other watercraft and helps prevent collisions in low visibility conditions. The specific configuration and color of the navigation lights help identify the boat's orientation and which direction it is moving, which is necessary for safe navigation after dark.

While safety devices like life jackets, flares, and fire extinguishers are important for overall safety and compliance with boating regulations, navigation lights are specifically a requirement for nighttime operation. They are essential for maintaining safety on the water, directly relating to how a vessel is perceived and navigated during hours of darkness.