A major component of a safe, responsible and fun-filled outing is a boat that has all the necessary safety equipment operating properly. A free voluntary vessel safety check is the answer and our trained members will be happy to perform the check.
Vessels that successfully complete the safety check may qualify for a discount on rates with many major insurance companies. West Marine offers a 10% discount on safety equipment needed to pass the safety check.
To schedule a Vessel Safety Check on your watercraft CLICK HERE to send an email to the Vessel Safety Check officer. He or she will contact you to schedule an appointment.
The Vessel Safety Check process is one of accident and injury prevention through education, outreach and volunteer compliance with Federal and state recreational boating safety laws. It makes boaters aware of the safety equipment that should be carried on board as well as making boaters aware of environmental regulations regarding spills, discharges, and dumping. It is designed to motivate boaters to maintain and operate their boats in a safe manner, to take boating safety courses to increase their knowledge and skills, and to promote safe boating.
Areas covered by the safety check include: registration/documentation and proper display of registration numbers, adequate personal flotation devices, current visual distress signals for the boating area, number of operating fire extinguishers for the size of boat, engine compartment ventilation, backfire flame control, operating sound producing devices, properly installed and operating navigation lights and marine sanitation devices, display of required pollution and trash placards, navigation rules, and compliance with state requirements. A distinctive decal is awarded for display on your vessel upon successful completion. There are also scheduled vessel exams where boaters can set up appointments at several marinas.