Boating Basics Course Outline

Boating Basics course is an 8-hour course that provides a comprehensive overview of required boat and PWC operation. 

Course components include:

1. A description of boat characteristics, basic hull designs, nomenclature, power systems and classification by the US Coast Guard.

 2. Legal requirements for the registration and titling of boats, the equipment to be carried on board and the training and certification of boat operators.

 3. Basic safety regulations, Rules of the Road and understanding the State and Federal aids to navigation systems in the waterways.

 4. Operating characteristics of boats and an introduction to basic seamanship.

 5. Accident prevention and steps to take to insure personal safety on the water; facts about boating under the influence and the effects of hypothermia on boaters; and water rescue techniques for boaters.

 6. Weather observation, chart familiarization, use of the marine compass, use of the marine VHF radio, and boating through locks and around dams.

 7. Special operational characteristics of personal watercraft; riding and handling techniques and personal protective equipment.

 8. Environmental management and conservation responsibilities of boat operators, including fueling and cleanup; restrictions on marine heads, the dumping of trash and waste; and reporting responsibilities and procedures.

 9. Dangers of Carbon Monoxide. Keeping our Waterways Safe and US  Warnings.