NCsaltaire

Can You Pass the Test?

May 14, 2012 at 10:56 am Leave a comment

May is a great month to launch your boat and enjoy the water.

The first thing you should plan for is a “Vessel Safety Check”. This check is done by the local USGC Auxiliary and involves a courtesy examination of your boat (Vessel). It is designed 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 a boarding or a law enforcement issue. No citations will be given as a result of this encounter. Most times they will perform the inspection while your boat is still on the trailer.

The USCG Auxiliary inspector will also supply you with a copy of the evaluation so that you may follow some of the suggestions given. Great news: Vessels that pass will be able to display our distinctive VSC decal.

Please note: This does not exempt you from law enforcement boarding, but you can be prepared to make this a positive encounter.

So don’t forget: Safe Boating Week is May 22-28, 2012. Do your part by being a safe boater.

Tip of the Week: Before you set out on your first trip, take the time to get your boat inspected. This safety check will give you a head start for a safe boating season.

Until next time, Tightlines

Entry filed under: Home, Places. Tags: boating, boating safety, cape hatteras, charlotte harbor, chesapeake bay, duck, Key West, Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, nags head, salt water fishing.