comdtinst m16114.32c - U.S. Coast Guard

Part 2 – Operations and Missions
Chapter 5 – Mission Types
D.4. RBS
Boarding
NOTE
RBS boardings, like all other boardings, are conducted to enforce all
applicable U.S. laws and to educate mariners on the proper and safe
practices associated with operating vessels. In every instance, boardings
shall be done as thoroughly and expeditiously as possible to minimize
interference with legitimate voyages.
All boardings must be complete and thorough. Superficial checks defeat the
purpose of vessel boardings.
D.4.a. Vessels
with Vessel
Safety Check
(VSC) Decals
Award of the VSC decal is not intended to give boats immunity from
being boarded.
(01)
A VSC decal is considered current for one year.
(02) Boaters should be told that they are receiving an abbreviated
boarding because they have the VSC decal.
Education and Support
D.5. Community
Education
D.6. Support of
Auxiliary RBS
Programs
Units should meet regularly with recreational boating groups and
participate, as time and resources allow, in boat shows and other events
that can be used to promote boating safety. Community education efforts
should be closely coordinated with the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Unit support of Auxiliary RBS programs (i.e., VSC, MDV, and boater
education classes) can have a significantly positive effect on these
extremely valuable programs. Units should contact their local Auxiliary
Flotilla Commanders to coordinate support activities.
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