NEW ORLEANS — The Coast Guard recommends boaters take a boating safety course to increase their knowledge and skills during National Safe Boating Week.
Courses cover many aspects of boating safety, from boat handling to reading the weather, and from a "Water 'N Kids" class to courses for boaters who want to learn electronic navigation skills. The most popular basic courses generally have from six to 13 lessons to provide a foundation of operational and safety instruction.
Local Coast Guard Auxiliary flotillas offer a variety of safety classes, including basic/introductory boating courses and safety courses, navigation, sailing and personal watercraft safety, among others. Many states offer boating safety courses as well.
The National Association of State Boating Boating Law Administrators' online directory provides contact information for state boating agencies.
Research shows that boaters believe they are boating safely if they have proper equipment and training, though statistics show that safe boating is really a matter of their own behavior.
The Coast Guard challenges boaters to reach a new level of safety by taking responsibility for their own safety.
For information on boating safety courses in your area, click here.