VESSEL SAFETY
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CALL US 24/7    ~    TOLL-FREE  at  877-374-6798

Vessel Safety Checks look for the following:
   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 ignition 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  - legal requirement for pleasure boats traveling outside of U.S. waters.

They will also do a visual exam of your trailering system.