On June 26, 2011, two members of the Ocean City US Coast Guard Auxliary Flotilla 81 (including Bob Babezki, Public Affairs Officer and SFEC Member) held a Vessel Safety Check at the old Corson’s Inlet Marina, sponsored by the SFEC.
They examined 10 boats to ensure that each vessel was equipped with the proper safety equipment and was in working order. In addition, the examination allowed the Vessel Examiner a chance to share his knowledge and experience with the vessel’s owner.
The most common problems identified are navigation lights not working properly, flares being out of date and the fire extinguisher having lost its charge. The Vessel Safety Check identifies these items and brings them to the attention of the operator, so that measures can be taken to remedy the problems and make the boat safe for recreational use.
Each year, Flotilla 81 examines over 300 recreational boats, Personal Water Craft (PWC’s) and paddlecraft (kayaks & canoes) in an effort to make everyone’s time on the water safe and enjoyable.
The Coast Guard Auxiliary would like to remind all boaters that it is important for everyone to always wear their lifejackets. Accident statistics indicates that 88% of the people who die in boating accidents drown because they were not wearing their lifejacket.
Here Bob writes out instructions for two novice boat owner / operators…
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