The best way to be sure your boat meets all federal and state safety requirements is to request a complimentary Vessel Safety Check (VSC). This courtesy examination is offered to all boaters by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the U. S. Power Squadrons. The VSC is voluntary on your part, and usually takes no more than 20 minutes. In the event your boat is found to be non-compliant, vessel safety examiners do not issue citations, nor do they report violations to law enforcement authorities. This principle is so fundamental to the process that vessel safety examiners who also happen to be law enforcement officers are prohibited from conducting VSCs in any jurisdiction where they have police powers so as to avoid any potential conflict of interest.
The Vessel Safety Check consists of a check of the following components as applicable:
1. Display of registration numbers and decals
2. Vessel registration and/or documentation
3. Personal Flotation Devices
4. Visual Distress Signals
5. Fire Extinguishers
6. Ventilation
7. Backfire flame control
8. Sound-producing devices
9. Navigation lights
10. Oily Waste placards
11. Trash/Garbage Placards and Plans
12. Marine Sanitation Devices
13. Inland Navigation Rules
14. State Requirements
15. Overall condition of the boat
Keep in mind that not all of these items are applicable, depending on type, size and method of propulsion of the boat.
The examiner will also be glad to discuss recommended items such as anchoring, radios, first aid kits, dewatering devices and overall owner responsibilities. He or she will be glad to answer any questions you may have about the process itself, or specific safety questions as well.
To get a Vessel Safety Check, go to
www.safetyseal.net Their website will allow you to first get a “virtual” VSC, after which you can click for a list of Vessel Safety Examiners nearest to your zip code. If you do not have internet access, you can call Tom Cashin, Door County Sail and Power Squadron, at 920 868 3631, or Ray Kostiuk, Sturgeon Bay/Algoma Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla Commander at 920 868 2821.
Remember; You’re in Command! Boat Safe; Boat Smart; Wear Your PFD, and get a Vessel Safety Check.
