A summer of fun on the water with your family and friends is on the summer fun list. Don’t get into the water with your precious loved ones until you get the US Coast Guard Vessel Exam done on your boat. You’ll get a beautiful sticker from the Coast Guard, and may save some money too.
One of the primary missions of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary is: the promotion of recreational boating safety through on-board vessel safety checks. The Auxiliary members can give your boat the high quality exam it deserves. Boaters passing this free service are awarded a US Coast Guard decal that informs that Coast Guard, Harbor Patrol, Sheriff and Police, and other boating law enforcement agencies that your boat was in full-compliance with all Federal and State boating laws during the safety check.
If a boat does not pass the inspection, no action is taken against the boater. Instead, the owner is provided a written checklist detailing any discrepancies and personalized attention and advice regarding in how to remedy them. The Vessel Safety Check is not a law enforcement action and results of the checks are not provided to Law Enforcement or the Coast Guard. Usually, an Auxiliary Vessel Examiner will meet boaters at their boat – back at the ramp, marina, or even at their residence to perform the checks at a convenient time for both parties.
There are many benefits to having your boat inspected and passing…safety for your family and friends, pride that your boat and equipment is in good shape, possible boat insurance savings (check with your insurance company). Go to http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=V-DEPT&category=i-want-a-vsc; and/or go to Silverwood Lake State Park and find the US Coast Guard Auxiliary near the boat launch ramp. Happy and safe boating.