Vessel Safety Check (VSC) Information

As one of our boating safety missions, we conduct complimentary Vessel Safety Checks of recreational watercraft (powerboats, sailboats, PWCs, canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards).

Life jackets Navigation lights Fire extinguishers Battery cover and connections Backfire flame control State & local requirements

Registration and numbering Ventilation Visual distress signals Proper display of numbers Sound producing devices Overall vessel condition

A Vessel Safety Check can:

• Identify SAFETY and money saving opportunities.
• Prevent citations by meeting federal, state and local safety equipment requirements.
• Identify educational and equipment-related possible boating insurance discounts.
• Increase awareness of safety practices to avoid accidents and costly breakdowns.

You can find more information on Vessel Safety Checks here:

• Information about Vessel Safety Checks
• How to find a Vessel Examiner

You can find information on Federal and State Regulations here:

• Federal Code of Boating Regulations
• A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats
• Wisconsin Boating Regulations 

During the Vessel Safety Check, the vessel examiner has an opportunity to discuss with you, a fellow boater, the purpose of the marine safety equipment, to clarify various federal, state, and local regulations, to review local boating conditions, to answer any boating-related safety questions and to encourage additional boater education.  Some of the topics are:

• Accident Reporting
• Charts and Aids to Navigation
• Survival tips
• Fueling/Fuel Management
• Float Plan
• Weather and Sea Conditions
• Safe Boating Classes