Free Boat Safety Inspections

Newtown residents will have an opportunity to have their boats checked for safety free of charge by members of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, when the auxiliary holds its “Safe Boating Week” kickoff event from 9 am to 4 pm on Saturday, May 17, at the American Legion Post at 43 Oxford Road (Route 67) in Oxford.

Karl Sieling, a Sandy Hook-based vessel examiner for the auxiliary, is urging Newtown residents to take advantage of a free safety check as the local boating season begins. Trailered boats and cartop boats will be inspected.

Boats that pass inspection will receive a decal signifying that they meet boating safety standards.

At the event, the auxiliary will conduct life jacket demonstrations and will provide information on safe boating in the area. The auxiliary will demonstrate marine radio communications.

Residents interested in making an individual appointment to have their boats inspected for marine safety can get details how to contact their local vessel inspector by using the Internet address: safetyseal.net.

Details on the boating safety program may be obtained by contacting James Walsh, Jr, telephone 203-888-6500, after 5 pm.