The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering free vessel safety checks to keep boats safe on the lake this summer.

A trained and certified U.S. Coast Guard vessel examiner will check recreational boats for safety standards, including number, type and condition of life jackets and fire extinguishers, emergency distress signals, navigation lights, ventilation, registration and numbering.

The organization also recommends having a marine VHF-FM radio, dewatering device, anchor and first aid kit on board.

To find a convenient examiner, visit www.safetyseal.net/GetVSC.