USCG safety inspections
For boaters, safety on the water is not just a priority, it’s a necessity. The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) plays a vital role in ensuring that vessels operating in U.S. waters adhere to safety standards through routine safety inspections.
A USCG safety inspection is a review process carried out by the Coast Guard, The Coast Guard Auxiliary or the Power Squadron to ensure a vessel complies with federal and state safety regulations. These inspections for recreational vessels are voluntary. There is no individual reporting, and there is no penalty for failing an inspection, just recommendations for correcting any problems.
The checklist covers critical safety equipment such as:
• Life jackets and personal flotation devices (PFDs).
• Fire extinguishers.
• Visual distress signals (flares).
• Sound-producing devices (horns, whistles).
• Navigation lights.
• Backfire flame arrestors and ventilation systems.
• Registration and documentation.
Inspections matter
Perhaps the most compelling reason for a USCG inspection is the prevention of accidents and fatalities. Properly maintained safety gear and….
