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	Flotilla 130-11-01

The mission of the Coast Guard Vessel Safety Check is to minimize the loss of life, personal injury, property damage and environmental impact associated with the use of recreational boats, through preventive means, in order to maximize safe use and enjoyment of U.S. waterways by the public.

Vessel Safety Check (VSC)

The VSC program helps to achieve voluntary compliance with federal and state recreational boating safety laws, particularly regarding the carriage of safety equipment. It also raises boaters" awareness of safety issues through one-on-one contact by a volunteer Vessel Examiner (VE).

The Vessel Safety Check is intended to serve as a "prevention through education, outreach and volunteer compliance" activity and to help recreational boaters gain a respect for the boating environment as a result of the Vessel Safety Check encounter.

SCOPE

Vessel Safety Checks are generally performed on recreational boats under 65 feet. VSC requirements parallel federal and individual state regulations regarding equipment and safety conditions of the vessel. A VSC is not a law enforcement action. No official report is made to any law enforcement authority. A VSC is performed only with the consent of the owner or operator, who must be present at the time of the examination. A VSC does not circumvent the right of any federal, state or local law enforcement officer to verify the presence and condition of safety equipment.

Vessel Examiner (VE)

Who is a VE? He or she is your qualified and certified safety partner in recreational boating. The VE is your relative, best friend, neighbor, or work mate. The VE is a recreational boater just like you. The VE must study and pass a VE qualification examination. To remain certified, VEs have certain Annual Certification Procedures they must perform.

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