Does Your Boat Meet Federal and Massachusetts Safety Requirements?

With summer around in full swing, boaters across the area are enjoying all the waters of Buzzards Bay, Vineyard Sound and Nantucket Sound have to offer.

In order to help ensure that your boating season is a safe one, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is encouraging boaters to arrange for a courtesy vessel safety check (VSC).

The VSC is free and there are no law enforcement consequences if you don't pass this courtesy check. Any discrepancies found are discussed and the boat owner has the opportunity to correct the discrepancy and arrange for a follow-up VSC. When you do pass, you’ll receive the 2025 Vessel Safety Check Decal, which informs the U.S. Coast Guard, Harbormasters, and the Massachusetts Environmental Police that your boat met safety requirements at the time of the VSC.

2025 Vessel Safety Check decal

Qualified Coast Guard Auxiliary Vessel Examiners will conduct a review of safety equipment required by Massachusetts and Federal law such as; Visual Distress Signals (flares), Fire Extinguishers, Life Jackets, Sound Producing Devices (whistles, horns and bells), and Navigations Lights. In addition, information regarding new laws pertaining to fire extinguishers, emergency cut-off switches and other safe boating information will be provided.

The VSC usually takes between 15-30 minutes and can be done at a dock, mooring, or on a trailer.

To schedule a VSC go to I Want a Vessel Safety Check

To learn more about required safety gear for your boat go to Massachusetts Safety Equipment

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The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary was created by an act of congress in June 1939. It is the all volunteer, civilian, unformed, "force multiplier" for the U.S. Coast Guard. Auxiliarists can earn qualifications across dozens of mission areas with the exception of military and direct law enforcement missions. We are always looking for new members to join our organization of "Volunteer Lifesavers". Membership is open to U.S. Citizens age 17 and above.

To learn more about the Coast Guard Auxiliary go to Coast Guard Auxiliary Information