The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering two opportunities for residents to take online classes on basic boater education skills, with class starting late May.
Auxiliary Bellingham and San Juan Islands Flotilla members teach the courses designed for those who would like to obtain a Boater Education Card (BEC), which is required for anyone operating a boat above 15 horsepower in Washington. Some insurance companies also offer discounts for completing the course.
“The course is based upon actual incidents that have happened around our waters,” said Chuck Dalldorf, public affairs officer for the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 11.
The courses will teach several subjects including boating law, safety, navigation and sports boating. Dalldorf said some of the most important skills in the class are use of radio communication, safety around cold waters and basic engine maintenance.
“There’s a mix of skill levels, but you’ll always learn something new,” Dalldorf said. “Boaters of all levels having discussions is really good for everyone.”
The course will be eight hours in total, broken into four two-hour segments, and will take place entirely over Zoom. Dalldorf said the course will retain all the same material as a face-to-face class. The course will cost $25 in total, $20 for the class and $5 for a downloadable handbook.
The two opportunities to take the course are May 24-27 and June 7-10. All classes will go from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. An open-book exam will follow the final class.
After successful completion of the safety course, students can submit their certificate of completion and a $10 fee to obtain their BEC.
For more information or to enroll, visit bit.ly/38psTzA.
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