Saturday, May 24
Gandy Boat Ramp

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering free, non-punitive vessel safety checks at the Gandy Boat Ramp on Saturday, May 24, from 7:30 AM – 1 PM.

Come and greet Captain Mel Berman, host of the popular ’Captain Mel’ fishing show on WFLA-970 AM as he broadcasts live from 6 AM – 9 AM.

Other events scheduled from 6 AM - 12 Noon at the Gandy Ramp include ’Morning Colors’ at 8:00 AM, a Coast Guard patrol boat display, an emergency flare shoot, a Coast Guard helicopter/rescue swimmer demo, exhibits featuring local marine equipment/boat dealers and displays presenting Auxiliary boating safety course, float plans, safety equipment and other information.
  

Vessel safety checks are a 15-minute review of a recreational boat’s overall condition and safety equipment, including registration, life jackets, distress signals, fire extinguishers and navigation lights. Passing vessels receive a one-year decal; non-passing items can be re-checked after fixing for a decal.

Boaters undergoing a vessel exam receive a discount coupon for safety items at any West Marine store in the Tampa Bay area.

Vessel Safety Checks are also available on May 24, from 9 AM -1 PM, at the Williams Park Boat Ramp, Gibsonton and at the Simmons Park Boat Ramp, Ruskin. Flotillas in other Tampa Bay locations may also be offering vessel exams. Visit www.cgaux.org and use the ‘visitors’ link for local vessel safety check and boating safety course information.