USPS District 20’s individual squadrons perform periodic Vessel Safety Checks as a public service to their local communities. These safety checks take place at marinas and at public boat launch areas. A vessel safety check is a courtesy examination of a boat to verify the presence and operable condition of safety equipment required by state and federal regulations. The Vessel Examiner is a trained specialist and is a member of United States Power Squadrons or the US Coast Guard Auxiliary. The Vessel Examiner will also make recommendations and discuss safety related issues that will make boat owners safer boaters.
Vessel Safety Checks, minimize the loss of life, personal injury, property damage and environmental impact while maximizing the safe use and enjoyment of U.S. waterways by recreational boaters. The Vessel Safety Check process is one of prevention through education, outreach and volunteer compliance helping recreational boaters to gain a respect for the boating environment.
What we look for:
· Proper display of numbers
· Registration/documentation
· Personal flotation devices
· Visual distress signals
· Fire extinguishers
· Ventilation
· Backfire flame control (gas engines)
· Sound producing devices
· Navigation lights
· Pollution placard
· MARPOL trash placard
· Marine sanitation devices
· Navigation rules (39.4 feet and over)
· State and local requirements
· Overall vessel condition: Deck free of hazards; clean bilge; safe electrical and fuel systems; safe galley and heating systems
Find a Vessel Check Location in your area by clicking here!
