Vessel Safety Checks look for the following:

State Registration Numbers on both sides of the boat with proper one character spacing or hyphen between the "NM" in the front and the two letters at the end, full contrasting color to the hull, use of minimum 3" block letters and numbers, and a current validation decal on port side and located 6" behind the state registration number.

     REGISTRATION (Certificate of Number - the "registration card" on board) or /DOCUMENTATION - valid papers on board (very large vessels numbered by the U.S. Coast Guard)
     NAVIGATION LIGHTS - must operate and be in proper configuration
     SOUND PRODUCING DEVICE - horn, whistle or other device
     BELL - boats 26 feet or longer (this is 39.5' elsewhere)
     LIFE JACKETS - one wearable for each passenger, also one Type IV throwable device. All must be in good condition and readily accessible.
     FIRE EXTINGUISHER - mounted, minimum for size of boat and type of boat, in good condition
     VISUAL DISTRESS SIGNALS - inland, a flag, visual distress signal, light etc.
     VENTILATION - for closed compartments with potential for explosive vapors and ingnition source. Installed blower must work. Warning is posted.
     BACKFIRE FLAME ARRESTER- approved type, tight installation and clean.
     FUEL SYSTEM - tanks secured. Tanks over 7 gallons are considered permanent and must be grounded and vented. Hoses in good condition, no leaks.
     ANCHOR AND ANCHOR LINE - suitable for the boat and the boating area.
     ALTERNATIVE PROPULSION - paddle or oar.
     SECURING SYSTEMS - minimum of a length of line the length of the boat, stout, and in good condition.
     DEWATERING DEVICE - bilge pump(s) works, extra manual one gallon bailer or manual hand pump.
     OVERALL VESSEL CONDITION - bilge and equipment area clean, well maintained. Not overloaded, overpowered, or any automotive parts.
     ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - batteries secured, terminals covered, well organized wiring, proper fuses/circuit breakers.
     GALLEY/HEATING SYSTEM - secure system, proper tank installation, no flammable material nearby.
     STATE REQUIREMENTS - operator education card if born on or after January 1, 1989.
     MARINE SANITATION DEVICE - approved device, overboard discharge sealed.
     MARINE POLLUTION TRASH PLACARD - only boats 26 feet and over, written plan for boats 40 feet and over.
     POLLUTION PLACARD - only for boats 26 feet and over, with machinery compartment.
     NAVIGATION RULES - copy of rules for boats 39.4 feet or over.
     FCC MARINE RADIO LICENSE - not a legal requirement for pleasure boats unless traveling outside of U.S. waters.