Were you aware that you can receive a free Vessel Safety Check of your boat, motor or sail, without risk or obligation? This valuable service is provided by specially trained members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Throughout the area, there are trained and qualified Vessel Examiners ready  to help ensure your boat is in tip-top safety condition.

A Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is a FREE, voluntary check of your boat and its safety equipment. Auxiliarists help educate the boater through a direct, face-to-face boating safety information exchange with the owner or operator and provide instructions on equipment to be carried on board and other matters affecting safety. Federal and local regulations and Auxiliary VSC requirements are explained as well as other matters of interest. The VSC is performed only with the specific consent of the owner/operator, who is present at the time of the examination.

A VSC is performed mainly on pleasure vessels less than 65 feet in length and on certain commercial vessels which are not inspected or certified by the Coast Guard. Auxiliary VSC requirements parallel and sometimes exceed Federal regulations with regard to equipment to be carried aboard and general condition of the boat.

One of the most commonly asked questions is, "What if my boat flunks?" No problem, just schedule a second examination. The VSC is not a law enforcement action. No one gets a copy of your failure to pass. You get a check list of your needs and, often, help in obtaining them. Where to get another examination isn't a dilemma either. Usually, an Auxiliary examiner will meet you at your boat - back at the ramp or marina or even your house. Click here for a check list of the required equipment. NOTE: This list could take up to 10 minutes to load, depending on your browser.

What's the incentive for you to have a VSC performed on your boat? Well, besides the obvious feeling of satisfaction in knowing your boat is safe and prepared, the boat displaying the Coast Guard Auxiliary "Seal of Safety" on its port windshield signals to the boating world that a responsible skipper cares about having a safe boat. Your passengers will know that your boat exceeds Federal and State safety equipment requirements.

So, how do you get a VSC? You just have to ask. Email the Flotilla Web Master. He'll set you up with a local Auxiliary Vessel Examiner. In most cases, the volunteer examiner will meet you at your boat. And, be sure to check back here often as scheduled VSC 'blitzes" will be posted.