The off-season is a great time to take a safe boating class

While it may seem that talking about boating safety at this time of year is about as relevant as a snooze button on a smoke alarm – just because your boat is in dry dock doesn’t mean you have to be.

This is a great time to sign up for a U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Boating Safety class.

An educated boater is a safer boater, and in both Missouri and Illinois, younger boaters (those born after a certain date) are required by law to complete an approved Boating Safety Course before they may operate a vessel, and must carry proof of course completion when they do.

Whether you are required by law or not, a boating safety class is a great way to improve your odds of returning safely from your future excursions.  Besides, many insurance companies give discounts for those who complete the course.  Be smart.  Be safe.  Learn it.

To learn more about boater education, Vessel Safety Checks and other services provided by the Coast Guard Auxiliary – or if you are interested in learning how to become one of the auxiliary – visit online at www.uscgauxflotilla3-13.org or e-mail msz@charter.net.