Boating Safely Thanks to the USCG Boating Safety Application

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

The USCG app has a user-friendly layout that allows users to put safety as a priority.

Summer is here and the hot days can make the call of the water irresistible. And if you own a boat, you may be more likely to answer the call, or at least your friends and neighbors will want you to answer their call for some “boat time.” That is why it is important to be more than safe when it comes to preparing for a day on the water.

The United States Coast Guard offers a free application for your phone that provides several essential guides, checklists, and services to help give you peace of mind when planning your excursion. The app is available on iTunes and the Google Play Store, and includes the following features:

Find the latest safety regulations
Request a vessel safety check
Check your safety equipment
File a float plan
Navigation Rules
Find the nearest NOAA buoy
Report a hazard
Report pollution
Report suspicious activity
Request emergency assistance

The application also includes state and federal boating information and if you are on the ocean an Emergency Assistance button that will contact the closest Coast Guard command center.

The Boating Safety Mobile app was not intended to replace a marine VHF radio but act as a supplement.