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Vessel Examinations

The Vessel Safety Check program is a cornerstone of the Coast Guard Auxiliary's recreational boating safety mission. A Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is a free lookover of your boat or paddlecraft and its equipment for compliance with federal and state safety requirements. If your vessel meets all the VSC requirements, it is awarded a VSC decal.

The VSC is performed at your boat-ranging in locations from your boat to your driveway. A vessel safety check usually takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on the size of your boat. 

EVEN EXPERIENCED BOATERS NEED A VESSEL SAFETY CHECK! 

If you are ready to schedule a Vessel Safety Check, click here to get started, or if you'd like more information on how this free service can help you, please read on.   

The Process 

The Vessel Examiners performing your VSC have been trained to look for the more common problems, which might occur in your boat or paddlecraft, or with its safety equipment. Some of the items your examiner will check include:

  • Life Jackets
  • Boat Registration and Numbering
  • Navigation Lights
  • Ventilation
  • Fire Extinguishers
  • Distress Signals (Flares, Horn, etc.)
  • Battery Cover and Connections  

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

What's In It For Me?

The Vessel Examiner will award the VSC decal for vessels passing all parts of the safety check that informs: 

  • Coast Guard / Auxiliary  
  • Harbor Patrol 
  • Sheriff's & Police
  • Other boating law-enforcement & safety agencies 
that your boat was in full compliance during a vessel safety check for that year. Best of all every Vessel Safety Check is 100% free of charge!

What if I Don't Pass?  

If your boat does not pass, there are no penalties. Instead, you are provided a written report in how to correct any discrepancies.

Education

Also during your VSC, the Vessel Examiner will talk with you about the purpose of specific marine safety equipment, discuss certain safety practices and answer any related questions you have. Some topics discussed include: survival tips, boat fuel management, interpreting sea conditions and how to report accidents. Your examiner is also available to clarify various federal and state regulations for boating in your area.

Expiration 

All decals and safety checks are void December 31st of the year they are inspected, they are also void should the operator/owner fail to maintain the vessel equipment or the vessel itself to the standard at the time of the safety check. But not to worry we will see you next year for another free VSC!  

Ready to Schedule a Vessel Safety Check?

If you are in the Guilford CT area CONTACT US for a free vessel safety check.

If you're not in the Guilford CT area click here click here to schedule a free vessel safety check near you.

 

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