The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will offer the “Boat America” boating safely class on June 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pine Ridge Community Center, at at 15660 Pine Ridge Road, Fort Myers.
The beginner class will give the novice recreational boater the knowledge needed to obtain the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s safety certification. Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, who operates a vessel powered by 10 horsepower or more must pass an approved boater safety course and have photographic identification and a boating safety education identification card issued by the FWC. Many boat insurance companies may offer discounts on boating insurance to boaters who successfully complete the Boat America class.
Lee County is fortunate that it has enough resources to accommodate a variety of pleasure boating demands. However, local waterways can become crowded at times and be a place of chaos and confusion. While being a source of recreation, boating, to the unprepared, can be a risky sport. Not knowing or obeying the Navigation Rules, drinking alcohol or taking drugs while operating a boat, or choosing not to wear your life jacket are all examples of human error or a lack of proper judgment.
The presenters for the class will be trained professionals of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary who facilitate the sharing of experiences and relate courseware to the local area.
“Education and awareness of boating hazards is the key to understanding how to operate a boat safely. Participants learn the importance of life jackets, how to reduce risks, being prepared and exercising good judgment,” Fort Myers Beach Flotilla 91 Commander Greg Masonick said. “People are very busy today, and this one-day class can fit easily into everyone’s calendar. Unlike online classes, this program offers student interaction, shared perspectives and local area knowledge.”
The cost is $45 per person and includes study material.
Advance registration is required.
To register, visit https://www.aux91fmb.org/safeboating/ or call 239-690-6780, option 1.
Clinton Mora is a reporter for Trending Insurance News. He has previously worked for the Forbes. As a contributor to Trending Insurance News, Clinton covers emerging a wide range of property and casualty insurance related stories.