Required items on boat for coast gaurd

[Ray]

Visual distress signals are flares or strobe lights. They are needed in Big Lake.

Backfire Flame Controls are flame arresters for Inboard or Inboard/Outboard engines. V-8 or V-6 engines with carbs that can backfire and start a fire in the engine room.
THis does not pertain to Outboards.

Yes, an approved whistle is acceptable. Not a football whistle. You can get them cheap at Academy, Walmart, Kmart, Ship to Shore, West Marine... ect.