Safe Summer Boating Tips From BoatU. S.
Here's a couple ways to be safer on the water this summer
(PRWEB) June 13, 2002
Ask any experienced boater about boating safety and they will tell you that being prepared will always keep a bad day from getting worse. With the "Boat Smart From the Start" National Safe Boating Campaign kicking off May 18-24, now is the time to get ready for a safe summer afloat.
BoatU. S., the world’s largest association of boat owners and a leading advocate of boating safety, can help you stay safe – and save you money – with a couple of important safe boating tips for both you and your boat:
Educate yourself at home – for free.
Prepare yourself by taking a free, U. S. Coast Guard recognized boating safety course at www. BoatUS. com – clicking on "Boating Safety." Since 1997, over 200,000 boaters have taken the course in the comfort of their own home, which is also approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators.
The course was designed to give a novice or experienced boater a general overview of boat safety basics, requirements, navigation and operation through an interactive format. A glossary of nautical terms and background study material on the question topics are available through the use of hyperlinks, and most states have provided questions pertaining to regulations in their state. A certificate is issued upon successful completion, which also may earn an education discount with marine insurers.
Ask the experts for advice – and save some cash at the same time.
Prepare your boat by taking it on June 1 to a participating BoatU. S. Marine Center for a free Vessel Safety Check (VSC). U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U. S. Power Squadrons co-sponsors will have safety experts on-hand to verify the presence
And condition of certain safety equipment required by state and federal regulations. TheyÂ’ll also be able to answer any questions you may have about safe boating and local educational programs.
All boaters will receive an evaluation form and boats that meet safety requirements will receive a VSC decal. If safety gear such as life jackets, flares or other related items fail the VSC, boaters can purchase them at a special discount at the store or through BoatU. S. catalog sales at 1-800-937-2628.
For boats in the water, Coast Guard Auxiliary or Power Squadrons personnel will also be arranging appointments for free Vessel Safety Checks on dates after June 1. For more information about the VSC program, contact the BoatU. S. Marine Center nearest you or go online to www. BoatUS. com to get a list of participating stores.
The National Safe Boating Campaign is sponsored by National Safe Boating Council and the U. S. Coast Guard.
