On Sunday, August 15, the Martha’s Vineyard Coast Guard Auxiliary will hold a Safe Boating Class from 10 am to 5 pm, at the West Tisbury Fire Department on State Road.
Designed for all boaters, both beginners and experts, the cost for each participant is $40 and includes all course material. Once completing the course, students will receive a certificate of safe boating education, and paperwork will be processed for a Massachusetts boating license. Those under 16 who complete the course will meet the state requirements for a boating license.
Approved by the Coast Guard, the newly designed course, tailored to boaters navigating Vineyard waters, will include topics ranging from boating law, safety equipment to navigation and what to do in boating emergencies. According to Flotilla Commander Brien Hefler, the pandemic made people realise that being on the water was a way to enjoy the outdoors while distancing themselves from others. “The result is a huge influx of new boaters, and with it, an unfortunate increase in boating accidents,” Hefler said. “The course is a great way to learn the ‘rules of the road’ and help keep everyone safe on the water. If you are on the water, it can truly be a lifesaving decision.”
Focused on recreational boating safety, the Coast Guard Auxiliary is a volunteer component of the U.S. Coast Guard. The Martha’s Vineyard Flotilla is open to new members, and encourages anyone interested in joining to visit vineyardcgaux.org.