The Fort Myers Power Squadron invites boaters of all types of watercraft to sign up for its next session of America’s Boating Course. Approved by the state of Florida and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, the class covers all general boating information, including boating safety, boating laws and regulations, navigation, and boat handling. Florida law requires persons born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, to complete this course prior to operating a vessel powered by a motor of 10 horsepower or more. Most boaters who complete this course also enjoy savings on their boat insurance.
40% of all boating accidents and one-third of all fatalities come from boater inattention or inexperience. And in 70% of all fatalities, the operator did not have any formal boating education, even though most were experienced boaters.
Registration for and a short introduction to America’s Boating Course is from 1:30-3 p.m. Sunday, March 13. Subsequent sessions are 2-6 p.m. Sunday, March 20, and 2-6:30 p.m. Sunday, March 27. Classes take place at Fort Myers Power Squadron headquarters at 3145 Royalston Ave., just 1.5 miles from downtown Fort Myers. FMPS volunteers will issue the necessary paperwork for graduates to receive a Florida Boater ID card upon successful completion of a short exam. The cost is $50 ($60 for couples sharing educational materials). Complimentary refreshments are included.
The Fort Myers Power squadron is the oldest America’s Boating Club Squadron in the area, serving the local boating community for 66 years. CDC guidelines and social distancing will be followed.
To sign up for the course or to learn about joining the FMPS, call Lt/C Millie Bonilla, AP, at 612-616-6152 or send an email to mbonilla_ 3@hotmail.com. ¦
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