FWC Encourages Boaters To Take A Boater Education Class

Tallahassee, FL – The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is encouraging boaters to “Spring Aboard” by taking a boating safety course this year.  “In Florida, boaters who were born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, are required to complete and pass a boater safety education course. But everyone interested in boating should take a course,” said Maj. Rob Beaton, FWC’s Boating and Waterways Section Leader. “There’s no reason to head out on the water without this knowledge.”  Owners of human-powered watercraft, such as paddleboards and kayaks, are encouraged to take a boating education class, though it’s not required. FWC says the class will help them be aware of critical boating knowledge that anyone who plans to get out on the water should have, and be better prepared for the risks they may face while boating. Classroom courses are offered by the Coast Guard Auxiliary and United States Power Squadrons. There are also online offerings available, such as boatus.org/florida, which is approved by FWC.  Learn more about boater safety education by visiting MyFWC.com/boating and clicking on “Boating Safety and Education.”