Fort Myers Power Squadron offers safe boating classes

America’s Boating Club Fort Myers is offering safe boating classes. This NASBLA and Florida-approved course is for boaters of all types of watercraft, and covers all general boating information, including boating safety, boating laws and regulations, navigation and boat handling. Florida law requires persons born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 to complete this course prior to operating a vessel powered by a motor of 10HP or more. Most boaters who complete this course also enjoy savings on their boat insurance.

The 2021 data on boating accidents and fatalities compiled Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Consercation commission revealed that 83% of operators involved in fatal accidents had no formal boater education, even though the operator had considerable boating experience. These classes save lives.

Registration and a short course introduction begins on Sunday, Aug. 14, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The two session class begins on Sunday, Aug.21, from 2 to 6 pm and ends on Sunday, Aug. 28. That class runs from 2 to 6:30 p.m., and includes a short test required for receipt of a Florida Boater ID card. The cost is $50 or $60 for couples sharing educational materials, which include the award winning and comprehensive boating manual. Complimentary refreshments are included. The squadron building is located at 3145 Royalston Ave. in Fort Myers.

The Fort Myers Power Squadron is the oldest America’s Boating Club squadron in the area, serving the Fort Myers boating community for 66 years. CDC guidelines and social distancing will be followed.

To register or receive more information about taking the course or joining the FMPS, contact Lt/C Millie Bonilla, AP at 612-616-6152 or email her at mbonilla_ 3@hotmail.com. ¦