WASHINGTON - The US Coast Guard Auxiliary will again offer free boat examinations through its annual Vessel Safety Check program.

The checks are to confirm that the vessel meets both federal and state requirements for safety. No citations are issued and the results of the safety check are not reported to any enforcement agency, but a decal is awarded to display if the vessel has passed the examination.

The checks are performed at the boat's location by a certified Vessel Examiner. The check usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the boat. Items checked include life jackets, registration, navigation lights, and battery connections.

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