National Safe Boating Week is right around the corner

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With spring in full swing, the annual celebration of National Safe Boating Week is around the corner. The National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) encourages boating enthusiasts to brush up on navigation rules before launching their boat with free videos and quizzes. 

National Safe Boating Week will be celebrated from Saturday, May 21 to Friday, May 27 this year. Many recreational boaters in Washington are required by law to complete a boating safety course and carry a Washington State Boater Education Card, which is valid for a boater’s lifetime and meets requirements for recreational boating in Canada and many other states. 

The Washington State Parks Boating Program encourages boaters to take a boating safety course, whether required by law or not, as all boaters are responsible to know the laws and basics of boating safety. 

Blaine harbormaster Andy Peterson said it’s important for people to use National Safe Boating Week as a chance to take a step back and be conscious and deliberate while on the water. He said taking these extra steps beforehand can help prevent any unwanted boating accidents.

“We want people to be safe and prepared before they hit the water so that it’s all fun and zero stress,” he said.

Peterson said the Washington State Parks Adventures in Boating Handbook acts as an easy-to-read resource for those who may be new to boating or want a refresher on boating safety and tips. “I personally love this resource because it’s easy to navigate and understand for all boating skill levels,” Peterson said. 

Blaine Harbor will participate in NSBC’s Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day on Friday, May 20 where everyone will be encouraged to wear lifejackets while walking along the docks and on their boats. “We want to reinforce the message of safety by encouraging people to take selfies with the dock workers in their life jackets,” Peterson said.

Peterson also said Blaine Harbor offers other boating safety resources such as a harbor newsletter with more information and a year round kids life jacket loaner program through the Blaine Harbor office. 

“We encourage people to get involved with this year’s safe boating week either in-person or through virtual resources,” he said. “That way they can be better equipped to have a fun and rewarding adventure on the water.”

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