Get a vessel safety check

Before you launch this spring, get a vessel safety check from a qualified vessel examiner from United States Power Squadrons, America’s Boating Club.

If your boat has the proper safety equipment, you will receive a current VSC decal to display on your vessel. If not, you’ll know what safety equipment you should add to keep yourself, your boat and your passengers safe. You won’t be fined, penalized or reported to any other agency for a failed VSC.

Displaying the decal doesn’t guarantee that you won’t be boarded, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you have the required safety equipment to handle an emergency. You’ll also know where the equipment is located when you need it.

As part of the safety check, the vessel examiner will clarify federal, state and local regulations. He or she may also discuss the purpose of the required marine safety equipment, answer safety-related questions, and be a resource for local boating conditions and information.

Benefits of a VSC

A vessel safety check can help keep you safe and save you money:

By ensuring that your boat meets federal, state and local safety equipment requirements, you can prevent equipment-related citations.
You may be eligible for boating insurance discounts.
You can avoid accidents and costly breakdowns by being more aware of safety practices,.
By learning the use of safety equipment and safe boating practices, you can better avoid accidents.