Did you know the number one reason for failing a courtesy Vessel Safety Check is for not having proper up-to-date visual distress signals? In fact, 25% of recreational boats examined by the volunteer members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary and Power Squadrons do not pass the 15 point safety examination. Examiners will also check to see if you have a Type IV PFD for your boat if its 16 feet or longer. For more information on visual distress signals and other required safety equipment including Type IV PFDs, visit the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety & Clean Water Safety Study Guide. Click here to learn more about the free Vessel Safety Check Program and be certain you pass! It's April, do you know what your legislature is up to? And do they know how important boating is to you and to your state? If they don't, it could be they are missing some positive opportunities for boating. And, of course, ill-conceived legislative proposals might be popping up in your state capital, as well. Although some state legislatures are winding down by this time, others - notably some big boating states - are still in session. For a state-by-state legislative calendar, visit the National Association of State Legislatures. |