2026 Vessel Safety Check Reminder
As a new boating season has approached, now is the perfect time to focus on boating safety and preparation for the 2026 spring season. This 2026 vessel safety check reminder is an important step that boaters should take every year for peace of mind out on the water. America’s Boating Club | United States Power Squadrons proudly offers free vessel safety checks to ensure that boats are equipped properly and comply with the current requirements.
A vessel safety check is a free voluntary courtesy inspection designed to help educate. These vessel safety checks can help boaters identify missing, outdated, or non-functioning safety equipment before it becomes a serious issue on the water. From required life jackets to fire extinguishers, a boat safety check helps to confirm your vessel meets federal and state boating safety standards. The purpose of vessel safety checks is to ensure that your boat has the required safety equipment on board and that the equipment is in good working condition. Boats that pass will receive the current-year decal indicating compliance for the year.
Why Get a Free Boat Safety Check?
Safety equipment requirements can change year to year and your gear can expire or wear out too. A vessel safety check can help to identify issues before they become problems when you are out on the water.
Benefits of our free vessel safety checks include:
- Increased safety for you and your passengers
- Confidence that your vessel meets federal and state requirements
- Fewer interruptions during routine law enforcement stops
- Peace of mind during the season
Best of all, our vessel safety checks are completely free and can be performed by our trained examiners who are dedicated to promoting boating safety.
What Is Included in a Vessel Safety Check?
During a vessel safety check, our examiners will review key safety items on board such as:
- Properly sized and accessible life jackets
- Fire extinguishers and expiration dates on them
- Visual distress signals (when applicable)
- Operational navigation lights
- Sound-producing devices
- Fuel systems and ventilation needed
- Registration and documentation of vessel
- Other required or recommended safety items
If your vessel does not pass the vessel safety check, the examiner will explain what requires your attention with no citations or penalties.
Who Should Schedule Vessel Safety Checks?
All boaters are encouraged to take advantage of America’s Boating Club’s free vessel safety checks, including operators of:
- Powerboats
- Sailboats
- Personal watercrafts
- Even paddlecraft where safety equipment is required
Even if your boat passed a previous vessel safety check in 2025, youshould have an annual inspection. Schedule your vessel safety check now!
Schedule Your Free Vessel Safety Check for 2026
America’s Boating Club | United States Power Squadrons has been a leader in the boating education and safety industry for over a century in the United States. Our free vessel safety check program will help boaters prepare responsibly and confidently for every season.
Use this 2026 vessel safety check reminder to schedule your free vessel safety check today. Start the new year knowing your boat is ready for the season.
Safe boating saves lives, schedule your free vessel safety check now for the 2026 season.