Are you ready for a safe boating season?

As the weather starts to get warmer and boats start to be launched, it is time to think about safety on-the-water. One important way to practice safe boating is to ensure your boat is equipped with the safety gear that is required by federal and Massachusetts law.

Members of the U.S Coast Guard Auxiliary's Woods Hole Flotilla are certified to conduct a free and voluntary Vessel Safety Check (VSC) on your powerboat, sailboat or paddle craft. It helps you to achieve compliance with federal, state and local recreational boating safety laws, particularly regarding safety equipment.

The VSC usually takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the size of the boat and can be done at your dock, mooring, or if trailered, in your driveway!

The vessel owner has an opportunity to discuss with an Auxiliarist the purpose of the marine safety equipment, clarify various federal, state, and local boating requirements, ask boating-related safety questions and seek additional boater education.

Vessels passing safety checks are awarded a VSC decal that informs the Coast Guard, Harbormasters, and Massachusetts Environmental Police that your boat was in full compliance with boating regulations and laws as of the date of the vessel examination. If your boat does not pass, no citation is issued by Auxiliary personnel. Instead, you are provided a written report on how to correct any discrepancies. Once in compliance, the vessel can then be re-examined.

Arranging for a Vessel Safety Check is as easy as going to to the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary's "I Want a VSC" website found at this hyperlink I Want a VSC

You can complete your request online. Once submitted, a certified Vessel Examiner will be informed of your request and they will contact you to coordinate a time to meet with you.

Remember, a safe boat helps to save lives!