BOATING SAFETY INFORMATION & RESOURCES
The following bulletins and notices are updates to boater safety:
- April 20, 2022 - New USCG Fire Extinguisher Expiration Requirements - Click Here For New Regs
- June 21 2021 - Automated VHF Radio Testing Service Discontinued - USCG MSIB 20-20
- Nov, 2017 - Kidde Fire Extinguisher Recall
About Boating Safety
As a boat operator, you are expected to make certain that you have on-board your vessel all of the required safety equipment (known as the "carriage requirement"); and that your vessel is in compliance with all State and Federal Regulations at all times.
For more information visit the Recreational Boating Safety Outreach Site.
Download the USCG Boating Safety App
The USCG has published a one stop shop app for your I-OS & Android device. Just go to your App Store and search for "USCG".
This app provides information on...
- State Boating Information
- Vessel Safety Check Request Page
- Safety Equipment Review
- Rules Of The Road
- NOAA Buoys
- Ability to file Float Plans
- Ability to Report hazards, pollution issues, or suspicious activity
- And more...
Recreational Boater's Guide
This publication contains information about federal laws and equipment carriage requirements for recreational vessels operated in the United States. It is important that you understand that federal equipment requirements are MINIMUM requirements, and DO NOT guarantee the safety of your vessel or its passengers.
In addition to Federal requirements, the vessel owner/operator may be required to comply with additional regulations and/or laws specific to the State in which the vessel is registered or operated.
Although a vessel may be in compliance with the laws of the State in which it is registered; it may not meet the requirements of another State where the vessel is operating.
Boating Accidents
Have you been involved in a boating accident? Submit a Recreational Boating Accident Report by clicking here.
Safety Partnerships
Is your organization interested in collaborating with the Coast Guard Auxiliary to teach and encourage boating safety? Look at our Boating Safety Partnerships wiki, and see what we can do together by clicking here.
Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
SUP is among the fastest growing water sports; and as with all water sports, it must be enjoyed safely. The U.S. Coast Guard has 10 Safety Tips for Stand Up Paddleboarding here.
In late summer, the American Canoe Association hosts a Stand Up Paddleboarding Summit, to bring together all aspects of the sport (flatwater, coastal, surf, and river users); along with manufacturers, retailers, liveries, competitors, and instructors to discuss instruction and best practices. Expect more information on this exciting new water sport, as more information materials are developed.
Auxiliary members are encouraged to learn more; and to include basic Stand Up Paddleboarding information in Public Affairs events, Recreational Boating dealer visits, and other Boating Safety activities.
Source: Don Goff, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Branch Chief, American Canoe Association
Disclaimer Notice
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The USCG Navigation Center or NAVCEN, is a one stop shop for all your marine navigation information needs throughout the country. The site offers information on maritime safety, navigation systems & services including weekly notices & updates, the ability to report navigational system issues or problems, and much more.
Here are some local area notices and information for the