What is a Vessel Safety Check (VSC)?
A Vessel Safety Check is a courtesy examination of your boat (Vessel) to verify the presence and condition of certain Safety Equipment required by State and the Federal regulations. The Vessel Examiner is a trained specialist and is a member of the United States Power Squadrons or the US Coast Guard Auxiliary. They will also make certain recommendations and discuss certain safety issues that will make you a safer boater.
This is not boarding or a law enforcement issue. No citations will be given as a result of this encounter. We will supply you with a copy of our evaluation so that you may follow some of the suggestions given. Vessels that pass will be able to display our distinctive VSC decal. This does not exempt you from law enforcement boarding, but you can be prepared to make this a positive encounter.
The USPS and Coast Guard Auxiliary maintain a joint web site with extensive information on VSCs. This site contains information on what items are required, what is recommended for vessel safety. It contains a list of the most commonly found deficincies when performing VSCs.
We recommend that you visit this site to prepare your boat. Whether or not you participate in an official inspection, you can improve your vessel's safety by assuring yourself that you have covered the items on the check list.
Remember, the safety of your passengers and yourself are our primary concern. We do not make any reports to any law enforcement agency whether you pass or fail the inspection. If you fail, we will let you know the deficiencies so you can correct them. If you pass, you will be issued a sticker that identifies your vessel as having met the minimum standards for legal requirements.
LRGV Power Squadron member proudly displays a Vessel Safety Sticer.
LRGV Vessel Safety Chairman
P/C Chris Rakestraw, AP
D21pro@aol.com
