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This page last updated 19 April 2008 |
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Vessel Safety Check |
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About Vessel Safety Checks |
Vessel Safety Checks
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The U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offers free boat safety checks to boaters who wish to be sure that their boats meet all federal and state safety requirements. The Vessel Examiners who perform these checks are specially trained Auxiliarists who are kept informed of the latest legal requirements for boaters. Vessel Examiners have no legal authority - their goal is to prevent boaters from getting equipment-related citations and to prevent safety-related accidents. Not only is it a safety check but it also is designed to help educate the recreational boater on Federal and local regulations and other matters which may affect safety. Vessel Safety Checks are performed on standard powerboats and sailboats and personal watercraft (PWC's). Click here to request a FREE Vessel Safety Check for Greater Portland, ME and surrounding communities. Click here for schedule of where we will be doing Vessel Safety Checks.
To request a FREE Vessel Safety Check for all other areas click here.
"Show
me a better reason to wear a life jacket!"
Safe Boating Tips And Help Items Always file a Float Plan before going boating. More information is available at this link Float Plan Central. State of Maine and Federal Accident reporting information For State of Maine Accident reporting information click this link Snowmobile, ATV, Watercraft Accident Report Form or you can download the form by a right click on this link Maine State Watercraft Accident Report Form to download the form in Adobe PDF. If you are unable to download the report form, please call 207-287-8000 Most accidents will require above report for State Of Maine. However in some cases you may need to fill out a Federal Form. Right click here to download the form in Adobe PDF. For more information on where to report accidents to click here. Pre-Departure Check List for Boaters Float plan - let a friend know when you're leaving, where you're going, when you expect to return, what to do if you don't, and a description of your boat. Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) At least one Coast Guard approved device per passenger and a minimum of two onboard. An additional throwable device is required if the vessel is more than 16 feet long. Explain the location and use of all PFDs to passengers and crew that may be new to the vessel. Sound Producing Devices (Whistle) Must have a horn capable of producing a four-second blast audible for at least 1/2 mile. If a portable air horn, have a spare can of air or an alternate device. Lights and Shapes All navigation lights, as required, in working order. Instrumental lights working. If you intend to engage in an activity that requires a day shape, have the required shapes. Flashlight onboard. Distress Signals Accessible flares, day signals, etc., stored in a dry location. Carry signals at all times even if not required by the Coast Guard. Inform the crew and passengers of their location and their use. Tools and Spares Basic tool box onboard and a bucket for bailing. Box of spares aboard, e.g. fuel filter, light bulbs, head parts, through-hull plugs, etc. Ventilation On any powered vessel or auxiliary powered sailboat, or vessels using LPG for cooking or heat, check that all interior spaces are well ventilated before departure. If fuel smells are detected before ventilating, check after running the blowers for several minutes before starting. If odor persists, look for the source. Fire Extinguishers Accessible fire extinguisher. Do you have at least those required by the U.S.C.G.? Check to be sure mounts are secure and functional before departure. Fuel and Oil Are your tanks topped-off? If not, have enough fuel to provide a reasonable margin of safety for your return. Check the engine oil and coolant level. Make sure to carry oars or paddles. In some states it is a requirement. Bilges Check to be sure bilges are reasonably dry and that pumps are not running excessively. Clean up any spilled oil or waste in bilges to prevent overboard discharge. Battery Care If you have a dual charging system, is the selector switch in the proper position? Is the power on to the entire vessel? Spare batteries for accessories such as a hand-held radio, flashlight, portable navigational aid, etc. If they are rechargeable, are they charged? Weather Forecast Did you check the weather forecast? Radio onboard to receive weather updates. Docking and Anchoring At least one anchor set up and bent-on to your anchor line. Two or three extra docklines in case of unusual conditions dockside. Visually inspect the lines you use for chafe or wear. At least two fenders onboard for docking or towing if required. Documentation Have the ship's papers, registration, radio license, license or boating safety course I.D., fishing permit, etc. onboard. Have the chart or charts for the area you intend to cruise in, regardless of your level of local knowledge. Boating Offshore - EPIRB and Liferaft Trailer Boating Before leaving home: Is the battery charged? Do you have the keys to the boat? Is the plug in the boat? Trailer Checks Check tire pressure and grease wheel bearings. Make sure hitch is secure and safety chains attached. Make sure boat is tied down properly. LOOK BEFORE BACKING UP. Sailing Vessels Check sails, lines, sheets and rigging. Don't forget the tiller and centerboard. WATCH FOR OVERHEAD POWER LINES when raising the mast. Acquaint all passengers with use and location of safety equipment, radio, docking & undocking plans, etc. |
