MetLife
Boat Safety Tips
Coast Guard Infoline
The Coast Guard Infoline is a toll-free
telephone service operated by the U.S. Coast Guard in Washington,
D.C. Infoline operators provide callers with information on
boating safety recalls and take consumer complaints about
possible safety defects. Other safety information and literature
concerning recreational boating can also be obtained through
the Infoline. Anyone in the United States, Puerto Rico or
U.S. Virgin Islands can call the Infoline number toll-free,
Monday through Friday 8 AM to 4 PM eastern time.
1-800-368-5647
Will the operator answer all my questions?
Infoline operators are trained to answer
many questions on boating safety directly over the telephone.
If the question is very technical, the operator can ask a
Coast Guard specialist to call you back. Or if the question
is too complicated to answer directly over the telephone,
the operator may send you written information that covers
the subject. If the questions deal with topics outside of
the Coast Guard's Recreational Boating Safety program, the
Infoline operator may refer you to an office or agency that
can help.
What consumer questions cannot be answered by
the Infoline?
Sorry, the Infoline operator is not able
to recommend or endorse specific boats or product lines; nor
can the Infoline help the consumer resolve disputes with boat
dealers or manufacturers about service or problems that do
not involve safety.
If I have a safety problem with my boat, should
I call the Infoline?
Yes, consumers are an important source of
information used by the Coast Guard to identify safety problems
in recreational boats. When you call to report a safety problem,
you will be sent an owner's report form on which you can document
the details of your problem. You will also be sent a postage-paid
return envelope. Alernatively, the Infoline can provide you
with inormation about how to submit a report online. Individual
reports may not prompt Coast Guard response or a safety recall,
but each is given consideration and becomes an important part
of Coast Guard data records.
Is boating safety and consumer information
available only by phone?
The Infoline is a fast and convenient way
for a boater to get important safety information. But if you
prefer to write for information, address your request to:
Commandant (G-OPB-3)
U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters
Washington, D.C. 20593-0001
The Infoline is for consumer services only,
it is not for on-water emergencies or personal distress calls.
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