shueman
Libra
HDF Gold Supporter
Born To Drive...
   
Alta Loma CA
Posts: 17,228
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Posted: May 06 2006,8:05 am |
Post # 1 |
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Vessel Safety Check equals boating smart
Thursday, May 4, 2006
  It is a known fact that safe boats do save lives. For recreational boaters, operating any size or type of boat, safety should be an all-important part of the boating experience.
  In addition to wearing lifejackets and completing a boating safety course, getting an annual Vessel Safety Check of your boat is an ideal way to boat smart from the start.
  What is a Vessel Safety Check? A Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is a free courtesy check of your boat (vessel) to verify the presence and condition of specific safety equipment required by Federal, state and local regulations.
  A Vessel Examiner is a certified member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and/or the U.S. Power Squadrons who is trained to conduct a VSC. He or she will perform the VSC on your boat, discuss the purpose and value of required and optional marine safety equipment, answer any boating-related safety questions, and make recommendations that will help make you a safer boater.
  In addition to boating safety education, some important new Homeland Security rules for boaters are discussed.
  "A VSC is a public service intended to serve as prevention through education. It is also intended to help recreational boaters gain a respect for the boating environment," says Peter Urgola, Department Chief of Vessel Examination for the Auxiliary.
  "What the boater will receive is a copy of the safety check and basic evaluation so that the boater can learn about safety equipment, safety precautions, and follow some of the suggestions for a safe outing," Urgola said.
  It is important to note that a VSC usually takes about 20-30 minutes to perform, is totally voluntary, is not a boarding or a law enforcement action, and there are no citations ever given as a result.
  Boats that "pass" a VSC will receive a distinctive VSC decal, which is displayed on your boat. "The decal does not exempt the boater from a law enforcement boarding, but it does indicate that the boat has received a Vessel Safety Check and will better prepare the operator for a more positive encounter should he or she get boarded by a law enforcement officer," says Urgola.
  Obtaining a VSC has some great benefits. According to Urgola, passing a VSC will qualify the boat for a discount from some participating marine insurance companies. Additionally, if your boat does not pass the VSC, you can receive discounts on missing or replacement boating safety equipment items. Simply take a copy of the VSC report to the nearest participating retailer, purchase those items, and return to get another VSC completed.
  A VSC can be a valuable learning experience for the boater while providing some extra safety tips. For example, putting plastic covers on boat battery terminals, carrying a VHF marine radio, filing a float plan, de-watering devices, anchor and lines, and carrying a toolkit and first aid kit are just a few.
  Before venturing out on the water each time, it is always a good idea to discuss safety and safe operation procedures with your passengers. Fit each passenger with their lifejackets making sure they are fit and snug. Then, locate and discuss the operation of various safety items such as fire extinguishers, VHF radio, flashlights, first aid kits, and life lines.
  How do you obtain and schedule a local Vessel Safety Check in your area? This year, from May 20 through July 9, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadrons will be promoting its annual Vessel Safety Check Mega Weeks, where Vessel Examiners will set up VSC stations in your area.
  To contact a Vessel Examiner directly go to www.vesselsafetycheck.org and click the "I Want A VSC" button. You will also find a wealth of boating safety information and more information about VSCs located there.
  You can obtain additional information about the U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, boating safety education, and Vessel Safety Checks, and can locate a flotilla unit nearest you, by visiting: www.cgaux.org and going to the "visitors" section.
  Wearing lifejackets, taking a boating safety course, boating sober, and getting an annual Vessel Safety Check are important points that will make you a safer boater and a more confident skipper.
  More importantly, these behaviors and routine practices will help save lives. Perhaps it is true that, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Nevertheless, your family and friends will enjoy themselves knowing your boat has all the appropriate safety gear, is operating safely, and that you are a responsible boater. They will thank you for it, too.
  For more information about boating safety from the Coast Guard and Federal boating requirements, visit www.uscgboating.org .
You're In Command - Boat responsibly and Boat Smart From the Start - Get A Vessel Safety Check.
Submitted by Wayne Spivak and Robert Daraio, United States Coast Guard Auxiliary
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