Certified Vessel Examiners of the Norwalk Sail & Power Squadron will perform a free Vessel Safety Check on your boat to make sure it meets the federal, state, and local requirements. All boaters should have an annual VSC performed on their vessels to ensure that current requirements are met and all equipment is up to date and in good operating condition. |
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A Vessel Safety Check ensures that your boat meets the current federal and state safety requirements. Participate in this free, voluntary program and proudly display the annual VSC decal.
Safeguard your family and friends by taking a few minutes to have your boat checked for safety.
To arrange for a Vessel Safety Check in the Norwalk (CT) area, click here.
To find a Vessel Examiner outside of the Norwalk, CT, area, click here.
Current Registration/Documentation Papers
- Registered boat: state-issued numbers and current decal permanently affixed to forward half of vessel
- Documented boat: current state decal permanently affixed to forward half of vessel & documentation numbers permanently affixed to interior
CT Safe Boating Certificate (CT requirement)
PFDs
- One USCG-approved life jacket appropriately sized for each person on board plus one throwable
Visual Distress Signals (flares)
- Minimum of 3 unexpired day/night flares
Fire Extinguishers
- Less than 26’—1 BI
- 26’ - 40’ — 2 BI or 1 BII
- 40’ - 65’ — 3 BI or 1 BII & 1 BI
Gas Powered Inboard/IO Vessels only
- Blower & ducts
- Backfire flame control
Sound-Producing Device
- Horn
- Bell if over 26’ (CT requirement)
Navigation Lights & Anchor Light
- Red/green lights forward
- White light visible 360° (combo or all-around)
- 360° all-around anchor light
*Pollution Placard 26’+
*Marpol Trash Placard 26 Color ’+
*Trash-Management Plan 40’+
(*We have copies to give you if you need them)
Marine Sanitation Device (head)
- Any installed head must be USCG-approved
Navigation Rules
- Complete copy of nav rules are required onboard vessels over 39.4’
Good over-all condition of vessel as applies to safety
The local USCG Auxiliary holds VE classes at their Calf Pasture Beach facility for interested members of the Norwalk Sail & Power Squadron and other local squadrons. If you are an NSPS member and would like to become a Vessel Examiner, contact USCS Auxiliary member Ginny Lovas at FcFso72@aol.com
Vessel Examiners must take the course and pass the written test. They must also perform 5 Vessel Safety Checks under the supervision of a currently qualified Vessel Examiner. VEs are required to perform a minimum of 5 Vessel Checks each year in order to stay qualified.