Federal As a boat operator, you are expected to make sure that your vessel carries the required safety equipment and is in compliance with federal regulations for such things as numbering and operation. State and local laws may dictate carrying additional equipment. California In order to ensure that your time on Read more…
The USCG Boating Safety App features include: •Find the latest safety regulations•Request a vessel safety check•Check your safety equipment•File a float plan•Navigation Rules•Find the nearest NOAA buoy•Report a hazard•Report pollution•Report suspicious activity•Request emergency assistance As the nation’s recreational boating safety coordinator, the Coast Guard works to minimize loss of Read more…
As of April 1, 2021, operators of recreational vessels less than 26 feet long will be required to use an engine cut-off switch (ECOS) and associated ECOS link (ECOSL), according to the U.S. Coast Guard. The ECOS and ECOSL devices prevent runaway vessels and the threats they pose. The ECOSL attaches Read more…
Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!…Sending a distress call. Procedure for VHF Channel 16 MAYDAY: If you have a VHF marine radio, tune it to channel 16. Unless you know you are outside VHF range of shore and ships, call on channel 16 first. Distress signal “MAYDAY”, spoken three times. The words “THIS Read more…
Request your FREE Vessel Safety Check here. Both the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadrons have certified vessel examiners who will perform a free Vessel Safety Check (“VSC”) at your boat, at a time of mutual convenience. There is no charge, and no consequences if you Read more…