CHECKING VESSEL SAFETY TO REDUCE RISK

The Vessel Safety Check (VSC) program is a free service offered by the Coast Guard Auxiliary and Power Squadrons. This article describes how the program works and the benefits that boaters receive from using the program. VSCs are free, comprehensive inspections of boats. The examiner checks for all required equipment and its condition, inspects the vessel's general seaworthiness, and presents a short education course on boating safety. The VSC is not a law enforcement action, and is completely voluntary. However, a decal is awarded to the boater following successful completion of the VSC, which is a sign to law enforcement officers and other boaters that the vessel is in compliance with safety laws and regulations. Some insurance companies offer discounts to boaters who have successfully completed a VSC. The VSC also looks at safety items that may not required, but are important for boating safety, such as a marine radio, mounted fire extinguishers and inland visual distress signals.

  • Corporate Authors:

    United States Coast Guard

    National Maritime Center, 4200 Wilson Boulevard
    Arlington, VA  United States  22203-1804
  • Authors:
    • Burgess, V
  • Conference:
  • Publication Date: 2003-7

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Features: Photos; Tables;
  • Pagination: p. 29-31
  • Serial:
    • Volume: 60
    • Issue Number: 3

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00967951
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: Jan 6 2004 12:00AM