It has been recommended to all boaters, watercraft and paddle sport users by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and United States Coast Guard Auxiliary that they take advantage of free vessel safety checks every year.
These checks are performed by a certified vessel examiner who will, as a courtesy safety check your craft. Depending on the size of you craft, this exam can take less than forty minutes. A passing craft receives a VSC decal which lets the Coast Guard, Harbor Patrol and other local law enforcement agencies that your craft is in full compliance with all the State and Federal regulations. This gives a boater a distinct advantage in that upon seeing this sticker, law enforcement often will not board or detain your craft as they assume you operating safely within all guidelines.
If you craft fails inspection, you are issued a report which can be brought to the nearest marine chandlery to correct your craft.
It is important to know that you, your family and friends are safe on your craft by complying the minimum safety guidelines.
Vessel Safety Examinations are available by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary at the west ramp of Burt Reynolds Park in Jupiter. The vessel safety checks are conducted Saturdays from 9 a.m. until noon. Schedule your appointment by visiting the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and click on the left hand menu item “I Want a VSC”.
Boat safe this summer!