A U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliarist (l) double checks the paperwork as U.S. Power Squadron member, Curt Johnson (second from left) affixes a special 60th Anniversary Vessel Safety Check decal on a boat owned by Boat/US President and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Honorary Commodore, Richard Schwartz. Hannah Newburger, 11; Adam Newburger, 9 (third and fourth from left); and Abigail Newburger, 13, (second from right) all of Potomac, MD, join Commodore Schwartz (right) in watching. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadron Vessel Examiners conducted a Vessel Safety Check aboard the vessel and found everything shipshape. USCGAUX Photo by Joseph P. Cirone

The Coast Guard Auxiliary Vessel Safety Check is a voluntary program provided by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary to promote boating safety. It involves a complimentary safety inspection of your recreational boat by a trained and certified Coast Guard Auxiliary Vessel Examiner. The purpose of the Vessel Safety Check is to ensure that your boat meets federal, state, and local safety requirements and that you have the necessary safety equipment on board.

Here are some key aspects typically covered during a Coast Guard Auxiliary Vessel Safety Check:

1. Life Jackets: Ensuring that there are enough properly sized and serviceable life jackets on board for each passenger. They should be readily accessible and in good condition.

2. Registration and Documentation: Verifying that the boat’s registration/documentation is current and that the registration numbers are properly displayed.

3. Navigation Lights: Checking that all required navigation lights are functional and properly installed.

4. Sound-Producing Devices: Ensuring that the boat has a horn or whistle that is audible for signaling.

5. Visual Distress Signals: Checking for the presence and serviceability of required visual distress signals, such as flares.

6. Fire Extinguishers: Verifying that the boat has the appropriate type and number of fire extinguishers and that they are properly charged and cylinder is not expired.

7. Ventilation: Ensuring that enclosed engine compartments have proper ventilation.

8. Backfire Flame Arrestor: Checking for the presence and condition of a backfire flame arrestor on inboard gasoline engines.

9. Fuel Systems: Verifying that fuel systems meet safety standards.

10. Overall Vessel Condition: Assessing the general condition of the vessel and identifying any visible safety concerns.

It’s important to note that the Vessel Safety Check is not a law enforcement boarding, and no citations are issued. It is a way for boaters to voluntarily ensure that their vessels comply with safety standards and regulations. If a vessel passes the inspection, the owner may receive a Vessel Safety Check decal, indicating that the boat has met the required safety standards. If any deficiencies are found, the owner is provided with information on how to correct them.

Participating in a Vessel Safety Check is a proactive step towards ensuring a safe and enjoyable boating experience for all. Call 239-690-6780 or visit aux91fmb.org/vsc.cfm to schedule your safety check.

About the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary

The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed auxiliary service of the United States Coast Guard created by Congress in 1939. It is comprised of 26,000 members who volunteer their time to support the operation of the Coast Guard, promote and improve recreational boating safety, and provide trained crews and facilities to enhance the safety and security of US ports, waterways, and coastal regions. It is the civilian component of the U.S. Coast Guard and supports the Coast Guard in nearly all mission areas For more information, please visit cgaux.org.