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August 27, 2025
Coast Guard Auxiliary urges boaters to schedule free vessel safety checks
By Charles R. Manley IV
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla Commander
As boating season continues, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is urging all recreational boaters to schedule a free Vessel Safety Check before getting back on the water.
Vessel Safety Checks are conducted by trained and certified members of the Auxiliary to ensure compliance with federal and state safety requirements. The inspection covers essential items such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, distress signals, navigation lights and the overall condition of the vessel.
These checks are completely free, and there are no penalties if a boat doesn’t pass. Our goal is education and prevention, not enforcement. We want every boater to have the knowledge and equipment they need to stay safe on the water.
Boats that meet all requirements receive a Vessel Safety Check decal, recognized by marine law enforcement and Coast Guard units nationwide. For vessels that don’t pass, examiners provide guidance on what needs correction so owners can bring their boats up to standard.
The Auxiliary emphasizes that prevention saves lives. Regular safety checks reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
To schedule your free Vessel Safety Check, visit https://a0810704.wow.uscgaux.info or email [email protected].
About the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian volunteer component of the Coast Guard. Established in 1939, its nearly 20,000 members nationwide promote boating safety through education, vessel examinations, and operational support.
Vessel Safety Checks are conducted by trained and certified members of the Auxiliary to ensure compliance with federal and state safety requirements. The inspection covers essential items such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, distress signals, navigation lights and the overall condition of the vessel.
These checks are completely free, and there are no penalties if a boat doesn’t pass. Our goal is education and prevention, not enforcement. We want every boater to have the knowledge and equipment they need to stay safe on the water.
Boats that meet all requirements receive a Vessel Safety Check decal, recognized by marine law enforcement and Coast Guard units nationwide. For vessels that don’t pass, examiners provide guidance on what needs correction so owners can bring their boats up to standard.
The Auxiliary emphasizes that prevention saves lives. Regular safety checks reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
To schedule your free Vessel Safety Check, visit https://a0810704.wow.uscgaux.info or email [email protected].
About the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian volunteer component of the Coast Guard. Established in 1939, its nearly 20,000 members nationwide promote boating safety through education, vessel examinations, and operational support.