What is a Vessel Safety Check?
If the Vessel Safety Check Inspector finds a discrepancy, will I be cited for it?
What is checked during a Vessel Safety Check?
Why should I get a Vessel Safety Check?
How can I get a Vessel Safety Check? -- email Jason Copus jcopus@cgauxsb.org
Where can I get more information on Vessel Safety Checks?

Question: What is a Safety Vessel Check?

Answer:
The Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is a complimentary check of your boat conducted by members of the Auxiliary, confirming that it meets both federal and state requirements for safety.

back to top

Question: If the Vessel Safety Check Inspector finds a discrepancy, will I be cited for it?

Answer:

No citations are issued as a result of the VSC and the results of the safety check are not reported to any enforcement agency, but a decal is awarded for display if the vessel has passed examination.

back to top

Question: What is checked during a Vessel Safety Check (VSC)?

Answer:

An example of some of the items checked include -

Personal Flotation Devices (life jackets)
Registration and Numbering
Navigation Lights
Ventilation
Fire Extinguishers
Distress Signals (flares, horn, etc.)
Battery Covers and Connections

All of these items are currently required by state and federal laws and, if missing or inoperative, can result in a citation if your vessel is inspected by the Coast Guard.

back to top

Question: Why should I get a Vessel Safety Check (VSC)?

Answer:

The Vessel Safety Check gives you a risk-free way to check that you meet the legal minimums and to potentially avoid a citation later.

back to top

Question: How can I get a Vessel Safety Check (VSC)?

Answer:

If you would like to attend a scheduled VSC, check the homepage of this website for dates and locations in the Santa Barbara areas. If you would like to request a VSC in the Santa Barbara area, you can email Jason Copus  jcopus@cgauxsb.org to schedule a VSC. If you live outside Santa Barbara area, you can find a local examiner and request a VSC.

back to top

Question: Where can I get more information on Vessel Safety Checks (VSC)?

Answer:

Visit SafetySeal.net - A website devoted exclusively to the Vessel Safety Check program co-sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadrons(TM). Another option is to contact a member of the Auxiliary at your local Marina.

back to top

Disclaimer

Portions of the information found in the above FAQs were gathered from the following sources:

http://nws.cgaux.org/visitors/ve_visitor/index.html

back to top