®
®
Vessel Safety Checks What is a Vessel Safety Check?
A Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is a free check of the Federally required safety equipment that your recreational boat needs to have on board. The US Coast Guard Auxilliary and The United States Power Squadrons have partnered to provide a way to be sure that recreational boat owners can be sure they have the safety equipment they need. The Vessel Examiner (VE) that does the VSC on your boat has been trained to know exactly what equipment is needed for your boat. As a bonus, a VE cannot issue a ticket - we'll just advise you of what you need. There isn't even any reporting as to what was missing if anything was.Who should get a VSC?
The simple answer is that EVERY recreational boat should get a VSC. There are safety equipment requirements for all recreational boats from the largest cruisers to small fishing and hunting boats and even rowboats, dinghies and kayaks.Why should I get a VSC?
First, you will be awarded an attractive decal (see the decal) if your boat has all of the required safety equipment. Also, there is the confidence in knowing that you are carrying the equipment that can help in an emergency. In case you are stopped by the US Coast Guard, a Department of Natural Resources officer, a Sherrif's officer or someone else who can issue a ticket, they will know that your boat has been checked recently, and that can help make your encounter shorter and more pleasant.How do I get a VSC?
The easiest way to find a VE in your area is to go to the VSC website, www.vesselsafetycheck.org and click on the "I Want a VSC" button. You will be asked for your ZIP code - you can enter your home ZIP code or that of the marina where your boat is at. You should get a list of VEs in your area. If not, there are instructions to contact the National VSC organization.Can I review my boat's safety equipment?
Sure. Go to the VSC website, www.vesselsafetycheck.org and click on the "Virtual VSC" button. The Virtual VSC page will show the items that we check, and you can download and print a copy of the form the VE will use. You can use this to prepare for your VSC, although the equipment that is required for your boat varies with your boat's length, type of power (sail, gas, diesel or human) and where you do your boating.
<-- Back to DuPage Power Squadron's Home page
Please send comments to the webmaster: Dave Donkers
The information presented here does not represent the official view of the USPS. It is information from and for use by members of the DuPage Power Squadron, other USPS squadrons and all recreational boaters.
"USPS®", "United States Power Squadrons®", the Wheel-and-Ensign design and the USPS ensign, are registered trademarks of United States Power Squadrons, Inc.
