(June 30, 2016) The last USCG Auxiliary Safe Boating class of 2016 will be conducted Tuesday through Thursday, July 12-14, at the Ocean Pines Library from 6-9 p.m.
The Maryland Safe Boating class and certificate are required for boat operators born after July 1, 1972, but everyone can benefit from it. In 88 percent of recreational boating fatalities, the operator did not have a nationally approved boater education certificate.
Safety on the water is every boater’s responsibility and knowing what to do—not only in an emergency but also when docking, anchoring and passing another boat—is key to having fun and developing a culture of safety on the water.
Besides Maryland maritime regulations, the course, as taught by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, also focuses on boat handling, safety equipment, knot tying and other practical tidbits from experienced recreational boat enthusiasts.
Close to 100 boaters have completed the course and received their Maryland boater’s certificate so far this year.
To register, contact Barry Cohen at 410-973-1097 or email at bmc_rsc@yahoo.com.  The fee is $15.