Boating season is upon us, and the United States Power Squadron (USPS) wants to help make the waters safe.
Beginning Tuesday, June 2, at 7:30 p.m. the USPS will be offering “America’s Boating Course,” four two-hour sessions and an exam session, at the Poppenhusen Institute, located at 114-04 14th Road in College Point.
This is currently the third edition of the course. The material has been extensively revised and rewritten to enhance enjoyment and retention of the material, and to address new technological developments.
The first session covers the basics of boating including required safety equipment.
Session two covers navigation rules, navigation aids, lights and sound signals, as well as local, state and federal regulations.
The third session deals with “finding your way;” anchoring; dealing with adverse conditions and emergencies, and “communications afloat.”
Session four covers water sports safety; trailering; personal watercraft operations; knots and lines.
A fifth optional chapter provides an introduction to navigation that covers: GPS waypoint navigation; using charts and traditional navigation principles; using digital charts and practical navigation exercises.
All students receive an extensive full color book and self-study animated, narrated CD; both provide easy reference after the course has been completed.
Upon successful completion of this course, students receive the Safe Boating Certification, required by New York State for all personal water craft operators.
The total cost for the course is $45, including the book and CD. The USPS advises to reserve early as space is limited. Call Robert Klug at 718-424-2120 to reserve. – Victor G. Mimoni
