The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, is offering free vessel safety checks at Lake Red Rock’s Whitebreast Boat Ramp Saturday from noon to 2 p.m., in the overflow parking lot. No pre registration is needed to attend.

Trained U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary inspectors will offer complimentary and optional safety checks to ensure vessels are ready for the water. Items inspected will include life jackets, registration and numbering, navigation lights, ventilation, fire extinguishers, distress signals, and battery cover and connections. The process will take about 15-30 minutes, depending on the size of the boat. In many cases, boating insurance agencies offer discounts for vessels which undergo a vessel safety check every year. Boat owners should check with their insurance provider to determine if they qualify.

For more information, contact the Lake Red Rock Project Office at 641-828-7522 or via email at lakeredrock@usace.army.mil.