Free Boat Safety Checks Offered On Long Island

BABYLON, NY — Boating season is here, and America's Boating Club of Great South Bay wants to ensure Long Islanders enjoy time spent on the water safely.

ABCGSB will conduct free U.S. Coast Guard approved vessel safety checks in Babylon, Islip and Brookhaven towns, so that boaters have the necessary equipment and knowledge to enjoy the season safely.

These checks are part of the club's ongoing commitment to promoting safe boating practices and ensuring that boaters have the necessary equipment and knowledge to enjoy their time on the water.

"We are excited to offer these free vessel safety checks to the boating community in Babylon, Islip and Brookhaven," said James M. Milton, commander of Great South Bay. "Safety is our top priority, and by ensuring that boaters have the necessary equipment and knowledge, we can help prevent accidents and promote a safe and enjoyable boating experience for everyone."

The safety checks will encompass a variety of safety equipment and requirements outlined by both the United States Coast Guard and New York State law. Trained and certified members of America's Boating Club will conduct the inspections at no charge to ensure compliance with all necessary safety standards, covering areas such as proper life jacket usage, navigation lights, fire extinguishers, distress signals and more.

Boats that successfully meet these standards will receive a decal to display on their vessel showing they have passed the exam. Failing the examination incurs no consequences; rather, the objective is to enhance awareness and ensure boaters are equipped with the essential safety gear.

Meanwhile, owners of vessels that do not meet safety requirements will receive a discount coupon to a local marine store, where they can purchase the necessary safety items.

Boaters interested in taking advantage of the opportunity can schedule a free vessel safety check by contacting ABCGSB by calling or texting 631-533-2628, emailing VSC@BoatGSB.org, or on the web here.

Exams will be conducted at convenient locations and times throughout the boating season.

America’s Boating Club of Great South Bay offers public safe boating courses throughout the year in Islip, Babylon and Brookhaven Towns. For additional information on the public safe boating courses click here, email Michael Boland at seo@boatgsb.org, or follow the club on Instagram and Facebook at @boatGSB.

Organized in 1914, the United States Power Squadrons is the world’s largest private boating organization. The national organization is comprised of more than 20,000 members in more than 300 local squadrons across the country.