Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va. -Boating is a pastime activity that many people enjoy on the rivers and lakes aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, but starting July 1, all motor boat operators ages 40 and younger will need to take a boater safety course.
“Children who are 14-15 are allowed to operate a boat or personal watercraft without having taken a boater safety course, if they do so under the direct supervision of a person who does meet the boating education requirement,” said Stacey Brown, boating education coordinator for the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.
The Department of Game and Inland Fisheries offers two types of training: the online class and in the classroom, both of which can be found on Boat Safety Education Requirements.
“Some [tests] are free and some have a fee,” said Brown.
The online class is held on the Massachusetts Official Free Safe Boating Course the class is free, but has a minimum time of 3 hours depending on how long it takes for one to read the course material and answer the test questions.
The in-classroom training is held at the US Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla in Fredericksburg, VA just off Virginia state route 3 west and cost $25-$40, and includes demonstrations and videos along with a wallet-sized certificate card and the printable certificate.
“The classes have information that even a seasoned boater my not know,” said Brown.
One commonly unknown fact is that some of the highest danger times are on Saturday and Sunday from the hours of 1 to 6 p.m. according to Brown.
“This happens because during this time you are tired and that makes you complacent and less aware of some of the dangers that may be coming your way,” said Brown.
Some boat safety tips to keep in mind:
•Before going out on a long boating trip it’s smart to leave a sailing agenda so in case you get lost we know where you are, said Wood.
•If you bring alcohol with you on your boat that you use it wisely because it’s the same consequences as if you are caught driving under the influence, said Wood.
•Take the boat safety course because anyone who violates any provision of the boating safety education compliance requirement law or any regulations will be subject to a civil penalty of $100 that will be deposited in the Motorboat and Water Safety Fund of the Game Protection Fund.
•Wear a lifejacket, said Brown.
Be safe this summer and take some time to learn the basic, because you never know when something might happen and it is best to be prepared.