How to Get Boating Safety Instructions and Tips

Most States require that operators complete a course to learn basic boating safety before using a boat. The requirements may include sail boats, motor boats, small boats and other water motorized vehicles. There are many resources paid and unpaid to learn the safety rules. Use these tips to help you get boating safety instructions approved by your State.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Learn marine practices and instructions by taking a boating safety course online. There are many online boating courses designed to teach basic boat operations, emergency preparedness and handling boating equipments. These courses may also provide a Boater Card after completing a test.
   
   Make sure the boating safety class you chose meets your State boating certification regulations.

2. 

   Contact your local Marina and find out if it offers boating safety courses and instructions. Sometimes cities may offer free boating courses thru the Marina. Search online or on a telephone directory to get the Marina contact information and find out if it offers boating instructions.

3. Check boats and boating safety equipment recalls by visiting the US Coast Guard website. This site publishes a monthly list of boats and boating equipment recalls. Find out if your boat is on the list for violating safety requirements. Follow the Coast Guard instructions for contacting the manufacturer.

4. 

   Find Boating Foundations and non profit groups that may offer safety courses and resources. Some of these foundations provide free classes and may only charge for the Boater Card. Make sure the organization courses meet your State boating requirements.

[xrayness]

on 7/14/2009 Hello Rio Ann: I don't like the beach, but I love boating. Hopefully when I retire I will be able to afford a small yacht. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with me.