Vessel Safety Check (VSC) Program
Introduction
The mission of the Coast Guard Recreational Boating Safety program is to minimize the loss of life, personal injury, property damage and environmental impact associated with the use of recreational vessels through preventive means. The VSC program supports one of the program's key goals: to improve the demonstrated knowledge, skills, abilities and behaviors of boaters.
The VSC is not a boarding or law enforcement issue. No citations will be given as a result of this encounter. The boater will be given a copy of the completed evaluations so that the boater may follow some of the suggestions given. Vessels that pass will be able to display the distinctive VSC decal. This does not exempt the boater from law enforcement boarding, but the boater can be prepared to make this a positive encounter.
What is a Vessel Safety Check?
A Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is a FREE check to boaters who wish to be sure that their vessel meets all federal and state equipment requirements. Vessel Examiners performing this service have been trained to look for some of the more common problems, which might occur on vessels or their associated safety equipment. The items checked are:
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If the vessel has all the required items (listed above) on board and are in good working order, the vessel examiner will award a VSC decal to affix to the vessel.
Additional Safety Equipment:
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Note: The above items are not required for the award of the Vessel Safety Check decal.
Boating Safety Education
During the Vessel Safety Check, the vessel examiner will discuss with the recreational boater the purpose of specific marine safety equipment, will clarify various federal and state regulations, will discuss certain safety procedures practices, and will answer any boating related questions. Some of the topics discussed are:
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Further Information
To get your vessel "Safety Checked" or for more information on the Vessel Safety Check program, contact the San Diego Power Squadron by clicking on the button to the right, a U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary member or visit the National Vessel Safety Check web site. To date, SDSPS has completed 83 Vessel Safety Checks in 2005 with 58 boats passing the exam. Get your free Vessel Safety check today!