Wellington has partnered with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary to offer residents a certified boating safety class Saturday, April 13 at the Wellington Community Center (12150 W. Forest Hill Blvd.).
The Coast Guard will conduct the class from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a break for lunch. This course is designed for individuals 17 and older and will teach how to safely operate a boat, along with local laws and regulations. Participants will receive a certification at the conclusion of the course.
No payment is necessary to register; just bring it with you on the day of the class. The cost is $35 per person and there is a multi-family discount. To register for the boating safety class, call (561) 791-4082. For more information on boating and water safety, call the Coast Guard Auxiliary at (561) 818-7905.
Additionally, free vessel safety checks will be offered Sunday, April 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the front parking lot of the Wellington Municipal Complex (12300 W. Forest Hill Blvd.).
The courtesy vessel safety check (VSC) is performed at your boat by a certified vessel examiner, and usually takes up to 30 minutes depending upon the size of your boat. Boats that pass the examination are awarded a distinctive VSC decal that alerts the Coast Guard, Harbor Patrol, Fish & Wildlife and other law-enforcement agencies that your boat was found to be in full compliance with all federal and state boating laws.
Passing the exam will give you the peace of mind that your boat meets minimum safety standards and that in an emergency, you will have the necessary equipment to save lives and summon help.
Having your boat examined can help you avoid substantial fines should you ever be boarded by law enforcement and found to be in violation, and your insurance rates may be lowered (check with your agent).
Call (561) 791-4082 to reserve your spot for the exam.
