Keeping Boating Fun and Safe

FREE BOATING CLASS PUT ON BY THE UNITED STATES COAST GUARD AUXILIARY

Whether you are new to boating or a seasoned captain, if you have never taken a safe boating class It can be educational and fun. This past Saturday I had the opportunity to sit in on the USCG Auxiliary boating safety course (ABS) put on by the Flotilla 52 Ozarks Region Coast Guard Auxiliary. It was a great experience and if you were born after January 1st, 1984, this class will fulfill the requirement to operate a boat or PWC (personal water craft) in the state of Missouri.

The instructors, Wilson Allsbrook, Deb Stoner and Carroll Vogel covered everything from required safety equipment to navigating your boat.

FREE BOAT INSPECTIONS
The Coast Guard Auxiliary also performs free recreational boat inspections upon request. Boats passing a safety check are awarded a U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Decal that lets Water Patrol, Coast Guard and other law enforcement agencies know that your boat was in full compliance with all federal and state boating laws during the safety check for that year.

What If My Boat Doesen’t Pass?
If your boat does not pass, no citation is issued. Instead you are provided a written report in how to correct any discrepancies.

Having your boat inspected will give you peace of mind knowing that it meets federal and state requirements. Check with your insurance company-in many cases boating insurance agencies offer discounts for vessels which are inspected yearly.