VESSEL SAFETY CHECK

A vessel safety check is a courtesy examination of a boat to verify the presence and operable condition of certain safety equipment required by state and federal regulations. The Vessel Examiner is a trained specialist and is a member of the United States Power Squadrons or the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. They will also make certain recommendations and discuss safety related issues that will make boat owners safer boaters.

The inspection is really quick and easy. Many trailerable boats can be inspected in ten minutes. All boaters will receive a copy of the evaluation form at the end of the inspection. Boats that meet the safety requirements will receive a current Vessel Safety Check decal to be displayed onboard.

If replacement or additional safety items are needed to successfully meet the requirements, the Vessel Safety Check form can be shown at both Boat U.S. and West Marine stores to purchase necessary safety related items at a discount. If the necessary items are purchased at the time of the check, the decal will still be awarded.

Lots of free material on boating safety will be provided by the United States Power Squadrons and the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Boaters can bring their trailerable boats to selected marine centers or arrange for a future Vessel Safety Check appointment at their boat launches, marinas or yacht clubs with the Vessel Examiner.

Vessel Safety Checks are not a law enforcement issue. No citations will be given if boats do not meet safety requirements.

To contact a Vessel Safety Examiner near you click here.