Greg Fonzeno

Free Safety Checks Can Save Lives

BY GREG FONZENO

Before boating season begins this spring, consider getting a free vessel safety check, so you can avoid an embarrassing and potentially costly encounter with law enforcement.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary helps boaters inspect their vessel to ensure required safety equipment is in good, serviceable condition and the required number of each piece of safety gear is on board. The free vessel safety check is performed at your boat by a certified vessel examiner, at a mutually convenient time, and takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending upon the size of your boat. What’s in It for Me?

Vessels passing safety checks are awarded a decal that informs law enforcement and other safety agencies your boat is in full compliance with federal and state boating laws that year. Best of all, every vessel safety check is 100% free of charge! What if I Don’t Pass?

If your boat does not pass, no citation is issued. Instead, you are provided a written report on how to correct any discrepancies. Why Receive a Vessel Safety Check?

The peace of mind that your boat meets federal safety standards and, in an emergency, you will have the necessary equipment to save lives and summon help. In many cases, boating insurance agencies offer discounts for vessels that undergo a vessel safety check every year. All decals and safety checks expire Dec. 31 of the year they are inspected. They also are void should the owner or operator fail to maintain the vessel’s equipment, or the vessel itself, to the standard at the time of the safety check. What Type of Items Are Checked?

• Lifejackets • Registration and numbering • Navigation lights • Ventilation • Backfire flame arrestor • Fire extinguishers • Distress signals (flares, horn, etc.) • Sound producing devices • Battery cover and connections These items are required by Georgia and federal regulations and, if missing or non-operating, can result in a citation if your vessel is inspected by the Coast Guard or local law enforcement. How Do I Find an Examiner?

Visit the Coast Guard Auxiliary I Want a VSC website at https://bit.ly/3fAyuGI, and complete the form. The site will locate the closest volunteer vessel examiners within 30 miles of your location, and they will contact you to set up a safety check.

Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and vice commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.