It is a known fact that safe boats do save lives. For recreational boaters, operating any size or type of boat, safety should be an all-important part of the boating experience. In addition to wearing lifejackets and completing a boating safety course, getting an annual Vessel Safety Check of your boat is an ideal way to boat smart from the start.

What is a Vessel Safety Check? A Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is a free courtesy check of your boat (vessel) to verify the presence and condition of specific safety equipment required by Federal, state and local regulations. A Vessel Examiner is a certified member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and/or the U.S. Power Squadrons who is trained to conduct a VSC. He or she will perform the VSC on your boat, discuss the purpose and value of required and optional marine safety equipment, answer any boating related safety questions, and make recommendations that will help make you a safer boater. In addition to boating safety education, some important new Homeland Security rules for boaters are discussed.

How do you obtain and schedule a local Vessel Safety Check in your area? Go to www.vesselsafetycheck.org and click the “I Want A VSC” button. You will also find a wealth of boating safety information and more information about VSCs located there.

You can obtain additional information about the U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, boating safety education, and Vessel Safety Checks, and can locate a flotilla unit nearest you, by visiting the Coast Guard Auxiliary National Website.

Remember, wearing lifejackets, taking a boating safety course, boating sober, and getting an annual Vessel Safety Check are important points that will make you a safer boater and a more confident skipper. More importantly, these behaviors and routine practices will help save lives. Perhaps it is true that, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Nevertheless, your family and friends will enjoy themselves knowing your boat has all the appropriate safety gear, is operating safely, and that you are a responsible boater. They will thank you for it, too.

For more information about boating safety from the Coast Guard and Federal boating requirements, visit www.uscgboating.org .

--You’re In Command --
--Boat responsibly and Boat Smart From the Start --
--Get A Vessel Safety Check--