A Vessel Safety Check, or VSC, is a free service provided by specially trained auxiliary members. 

 

Flotilla Inspectors doing a dockside vessel inspection
Our safety checks are performed at or near the boat ramps and sometimes even while on the water.  These free safety checks are just that, safety checks.  There is no citation given, nor is there a penalty for failure.  We do these checks to make sure that you have all of the required equipment onboard and that it is working properly.  Our examiners will be happy to discuss tips and other recommended equipment that could assist you.  
Dockside Vessel Safey Inspection. Upon successful completion of the VSC, you will be given a decal to display, which shows compliance with federal and state requirements.  Others who see the decal will know that you are a safety conscious boater!

 

Not only might a Vessel Safety Check prevent an on-the-water mishap, it might also prevent you from getting a costly citation from local law enforcement. 

 

Vessel Safety Check Decal Requirements

Display of Numbers

Registration/Documentation

Personal Flotation Devices (PFD)

Visual Distress Signals (VDS)

Fire Extinguisher

Ventilation

Backfire Flame Control (Except Outboards)

Sound Producing Device

Navigation Lights

Pollution Placard (Over 26 feet)

MARPOL Trash Placard (Over 26 feet)

Marine Sanitation Device

Navigation Rules (Over 39 feet)

State and /or Local Requirements

Overall Vessel Condition (as applies)
Deck free of Hazards
Clean Bilge
Electrical - Fuel Systems
Galley-Heating Systems

 

To get a safety check for your vessel send your name and contact information to  us using this email link.  One of our members will contact you.

 

To take a virtual Vessel Safety Check on the web and see how your boat stacks up go to Virtual VSC.

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