 It is a known fact that safe boats do save lives. For recreational boaters, operating any size or type of boat, safety should be an all-important part of the boating experience. In addition to wearing lifejackets and completing a boating safety course, getting an annual Vessel Safety Check of your boat is an ideal way to boat smart from the start. A free vessel safety check can help you navigate through problem situations.
What is a Vessel Safety Check (VSC)? A Vessel Safety Check is a freecourtesy examination of your boat (Vessel) to verify the presence and condition of certain Safety Equipment required by State and the Federal regulations. The Vessel Examiner is a trained specialist and/or is a member of the United States Power Squadrons or the US Coast Guard Auxiliary. He or she will perform the VSC on your boat, discuss the purpose and value of required and optional marine safety equipment, answer any boating related safety questions, and make recommendations that will help make you a safer boater. In addition to boating safety education, some important new Homeland Security rules for boaters are discussed.
Remember, wearing lifejackets, taking a boating safety course, boating sober, and getting an annual Vessel Safety Check are important points that will make you a safer boater and a more confident skipper. More importantly, these behaviors and routine practices will help save lives. Perhaps it is true that, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Nevertheless, your family and friends will enjoy themselves knowing your boat has all the appropriate safety gear, is operating safely, and that you are a responsible boater. They will thank you for it, too.
A Vessel Safety Check can help keep you safe on the water.
This is not boarding or a law enforcement issue. No citations will be given as a result of this encounter. We will supply you with a copy of our evaluation so that you may follow some of the suggestions given. Vessels that pass will be able to display our distinctive VSC decal. This does not exempt you from law enforcement boarding, but you can be prepared to make this a positive encounter.
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