Vessel Safety Checks (VSC)

Minimize the loss of life, personal injury, property damage and environmental impact while maximizing the safe use and enjoyment of U.S. waterways by recreational boaters. The Vessel Safety Check process is one of "prevention through education, outreach and volunteer compliance" helping recreational boaters to gain a respect for the boating environment.

The VSC Program also helps to achieve voluntary compliance with federal and state recreational boating safety laws, particularly with regard to the carriage of safety equipment while raising boater awareness about safety and environmental issues through voluntary contact by a Vessel Examiner (VE). VE discussions with recreational boaters is designed to motivate maintaining and operating their boats in a safe manner, taking boating safety courses to increase their knowledge and skills in boating, and promoting safe boating.

Under a Memorandum of Understanding between the U.S. Power Squadrons and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary dated 29 January 2000, the U.S. Power Squadrons became partners with the USCGA in a national program to provide safety checks to recreational boaters. The VSC Program replaces the Courtesy Marine Examination Program, and is designed to assist boaters in complying with federal and state recreational boating laws and regulations. The VSC Program will help minimize the loss of life, personal injury, property damage and environmental impact associated with the use of recreational boats in order to maximize the safe use and enjoyment of United States waterways by the public.

If you would like to have a Vessel Safety Check performed on your boat in the Worcester County area, visit the Vessel Safety Check Website.