The courtesy Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is performed at your boat’s location – whether in a slip, at the launch ramp, or in your driveway – by a certified Vessel Examiner (VE), at a mutually convenient time. It usually takes about 30 minutes, depending on the size of your boat. Boats that pass the examination are awarded a distinctive Decal that alerts the Coast Guard, NC Wildlife, and other law-enforcement agencies that your boat was found to be in full compliance with all Federal and State boating laws at the time of the inspection. If your boat does not pass a VSC, no report is filed. Instead, you are provided a written report that aids you in correcting any discrepancies noted. Often, a quick trip to the local marine supply store is all that is necessary to obtain missing safety items and easily pass a re-inspection.
And, if you show your examiner-signed VSC report, you may receive a discount on your missing or discrepant items.
Why do this? In one word – safety! You will have the peace of mind that your boat meets minimum safety standards and that in an emergency, you will have the necessary equipment to save lives and summon help. Finally, your boat's insurance rates may be lowered – check with your Agent.
Click here to arrange a FREE VSC at a mutually convenient time.
For a current list of Certified Vessel Examiners (VE), click here.
For a current list of the VSC schedules at local marinas, click here.
Areas covered by the safety checks include registration/documentation and proper display of registration numbers,
adequate personal flotation devices (life jackets), current visual distress signals (flares) for the boating area,
number of operating fire extinguishers for the size of the boat, engine compartment ventilation, backfire flame control, operating sound-producing devices,
properly installed & operating navigation lights and marine sanitation devices, display required pollution and trash placards,
navigation rules, and compliance with state requirements.
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Photos will be taken at these events for publication in the Foghorn and Squadron website. If you do not wish to have your photo taken, please sign the Opt-Out sheet at these events.