Vessel Safety Check

A "Vessel Safety Check" is a FREE courtesy check of your boat (vessel) to verify the presence and condition of specific safety equipment required by Federal, state and local regulations. A Vessel Examiner is a certified member of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary who is trained to conduct a VSC. He or she will perform the VSC on your boat (in or out of the water), discuss the purpose and volue of required and optional One a vessel passes the safety check, a decal is issued for that year, which is to be displayed on the vessel.

VESSEL SAFETY CHECK DECAL REQUIREMENTS

Registration/Documentation - original papers

Display of Boat Registration Numbers - permanently attached to both forward sides of boat

Lifejackets and Personal Flotation Devices - one for every person on board

Visual Distress Signals - flares, orange smoke, and others, non-expired

Fire Extinguishers - fully charged and sufficient for the size and type of boat (USCG approved)

Ventilation Systems - if powerboat with inboard or inboard/outboard engine; if built after 09/01/78, must display proper Certificate of Compliance

Backfire Flame Arrestor Control Device - if inboard or inboard/outboard gasoline engine

Sound Producing Devices - horn and/or bell, depending on size and type of boat

Navigation Lights - properly functioning

Oil Discharge Pollution and Marine Poolution (MARPOL) placards - boats 26 feet and over

Marine Sanitation Devices (MSD) - must be USCG approved and outlets must be capable of being sealed

Navigation Rules - vessels over 39.4 feet must carry a copy (COLREGs)

State Boating Regulations - read local regulations to ensure you're in compliance

Overall vessel condition, as applicable

ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION WITH YOUR EXAMINER

Accident Reporting

Offshore Operations/Trailering

Nautical Charts/Navigation Aids

Survival Tips/First Aid

Float Plan/Weather and Sea Conditions

Insurance Considerations

Boating Checklist

Safe Boating Courses