What safety equipment must always be present on a lifeboat?

The requirement for safety equipment on a lifeboat is crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals in emergencies at sea. The correct answer emphasizes the importance of having a compass and signaling devices readily available. A compass is essential for navigation, allowing survivors to determine their direction and maintain a course while waiting for rescue. Signaling devices, such as flares or whistles, play a vital role in attracting attention from passing vessels or aircraft, significantly increasing the chances of a timely rescue.

In contrast, options such as fishing rods, extra clothing, and denim blankets do not fulfill the critical functions necessary for survival and rescue in emergency situations. While extra clothing may provide warmth, it is not a mandatory safety requirement for lifeboats. Similarly, fishing rods and denim blankets are not designed to enhance safety or ensure survival in marine emergencies and therefore do not meet the established safety standards for lifeboats.