Ninth Central Region, Division 14
 Flotilla 14-08 New Baltimore, Michigan

   Vessel Exams     

The purpose of the Vessel Safety Check (VSC) Program, is to minimize the loss of life, personal injury, property damage, and environmental impact associated with the use of recreational boats, through preventive means, in order to maximize safe use and enjoyment of U.S. waterways by the public.

Vessel Safety Checks are generally performed on recreational boats under 65 feet. Vessel Safety Check requirements parallel federal and state regulations regarding equipment and safety equipment of the vessel. The Vessel Safety Check is not a law enforcement action - no official report is made to any law enforcement authority.  It does, however, raise the boater's awareness of safety issues through the one-on-one contact by the Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteer examiner.

Law enforcement may still want to verify the presence and condition of safety equipment on your vessel. However, if a Vessel Safety Decal is awarded, it is done so because you have met all federal and state boating requirements and you will feel comfortable with law enforcement officers checking your vessel.

The Vessel Safety Check emphasizes prevention through education and volunteer compliance.  It provides outreach to the community helps recreational boaters gain a respect for the boating environment as a result of their Vessel Safety Check encounter.  As an added benefit, many insurance companies offer discounts for successful completion of the VSC a Boating Safety Class - you may want to check it out with your company.

We have Vessel Safety Checks scheduled for June 7 from Noon - 4 PM at Compass Point Marina, in Fair Haven.  See our Upcoming Events page for other scheduled times, or email our Vessel Safety Check (VSC) officer to request information about scheduling a VSC for your vessel.