March 2019 Newsletter     Like us on Facebook  Follow us on Twitter 
Prepare for the Boating Season: Take a Safety Course

Whether you are a new boater or a seasoned veteran, now is the perfect time to take a boating education course. Not only will you increase your knowledge about water safety, you may even save a life.  According to the 2017 United States Coast Guard's recreational boating statistics , w here instruction (or lack thereof) was known, 81% of deaths occurred on boats where the operator had not received boating safety instruction. 

There are a variety of courses available across the country, geared toward boaters of varying ages and boats of various types. The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and BoatEd are just two organizations that offer such training. Be sure to check the boating laws and license requirements in your state and then sign up for and complete a course that meets your needs. 


Safety at Sea

A VHF (very high frequency) marine radio is a primary piece of safety equipment to have on board. The information below can help you use its channels properly.

Channel 16
Used only for safety and distress calls to the Coast Guard or to other vessels

Channel 9
An alternative hailing channel used between boats or between a boat and shore

Channel 13
Used for navigational purposes at bridges, locks and harbors

Channels 68, 69, 71, 72
Used for non-emergency communication between boats or between a boat and shore


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