West Marine, U.S.C.G unite for National Safe Boating Week
WATSONVILLE, Calif. — West Marine, Inc., the nation’s largest specialty retailer of boating supplies and accessories, has joined forces with the U.S. Power Squadrons and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary for National Safe Boating Week. Boaters who pass their vessel safety check during Safe Boating Week, May 21-27, will receive a coupon for a free t-shirt at any West Marine or Boat U.S. store, while supplies last.
“We are proud to partner with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary during Safe Boating Week,” says Peter Harris, chief executive officer, West Marine. “At West Marine we encourage our customers to have annual vessel safety checks so they can boat with confidence.”
The Vessel Safety Check is a free bow-to-stern safety inspection of your boat by a qualified member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or United States Power Squadrons. It’s the best way to learn about potential problems, and there are no citations or penalties. Vessel Examiners provide you with a copy of the vessel safety check form, allowing you to make the recommended safety improvements at your own discretion.
“In addition to assuring a vessel’s compliance with federal, state and local safety requirements, a Vessel Safety Check, gives boaters an opportunity to get information on safety equipment, safe boating procedures and other security issues,” says Peter Urgola, department chief, vessel examinations, USCG Auxiliary.
“It’s also important for a boat owner to understand that we’re not involved with issuing citations,” says Ronald C. LaPlante, chairman of the USPS vessel safety check committee. “If distress flares are out of date, as example, we simply point it out to the owner and suggest that they be replaced.”
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