Eighth Western Rivers Region
Reporting Discrepancies and Verifications Using CG-5474

1. Other then the preprinted Aid Verifier forms, the only form currently approved for reporting aids to navigation (AtoN) discrepancies and verifications is the CG-5474(AUX)(Rev. 5-95). Your materials staff officer can order these forms from the ANSC.
   
2. AtoN discrepancies should be reported, one per form CG-5474, by all Auxiliarists. Check the DISCREPANCY box in the upper right-hand corner of the form. Fill out the form completely and use the COMMENTS section to better describe the discrepancy. Important: Any discrepancy involving lights, including private aid and bridge navigation lights, should be reported immediately via VHF marine radio to the appropriate Group. This contact should be recorded in Section II of the CG-5474 form.
   
3. Qualified Aid Verifiers may also use the CG-5474 form, in lieu of using the preprinted forms, to report verifications that are "watching properly". Check the VERIFICATION box in the upper right-hand corner of the form and leave the top half of Section III blank. In the COMMENTS section, enter "The following aids are watching properly:" and then list the aids (Light List Number, River Mile, and Aid Name).
   
4. Distribute the copies of the CG-5474 as follows:
   • Original (Copy 1) and Copy 2 - For all aids except bridges, submit to the Coast Guard unit having responsibility for the area. Bridge reports should be sent to: Director, Western Rivers Operations(ob), 1222 Spruce Street (Room 2.107F), Saint Louis, MO 63103-2832.
   • Copy 3 - Send to DSO-AN.
   • Copy 4 - Send to FSO-AN or to FSO-IS who forwards to SO-IS for AUXMIS entry.
   • Copy 5 - Is retained by the observer.

It is very important that aid discrepancy reports are accurate and are delivered immediately to the appropriate Coast Guard unit (cutter) or to DWRO-ob (for bridges). Reports of "No Activity" are not required.

Finally, your aids to navigation staff officers are in place to help you establish your AtoN programs and assist in every way possible. Make use of this valuable and experienced resource.