News Release

KODIAK, Alaska -- The end of this year's National Safe Boating Week doesn't mean the end of boating eduction opportunities for the year because anyone who works, plays or travels on the water in Alaska can benefit from a boating safety class, taught by experienced instructors of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.

The eight-hour course contains information important for boaters, fishermen, hunters, kayakers and personal watercraft users. Topics covered include terminology, traffic rules, towing, life vests, legal issues and emergency procedures.

Students who complete the course may be eligible for discounts on boat insurance. Even experienced mariners say the few hours the class took were some of the best-spent time they can remember.

Alaska has one of the highest non-commercial boating fatality rates in the nation. In Alaska, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental deaths. Statistics reveal that three out of four boating fatalities were the result of capsizing or falling overboard into cold water, where the boater was not wearing a life jacket. Most of the victims had not taken a single boating safety course.

Classes are held throughout the year. The Auxiliary in Alaska will also soon offer safety classes specially focused on kayaking and paddle sports.

Alaskans can get personal help sure making their boat is safe and ensuring they are in compliance with regulations by getting a free vessel safety examination. A Coast Guard Auxiliary inspector will go through your boat and note anything that needs attention.

Vessels that pass the examination may display a decal proving compliance with safety regulations. There are no fines or citations for lapses during an inspection, and it leaves you well prepared in case of incidents or boardings while under way.

In some areas the Auxiliary also offers the "Kids Don’t Float" program, making life vests for children and adults available for use without charge. Look for chests marked “Kids Don’t Float” at your harbor and feel free to take one that fits your child snugly. In Alaska, children 13 and under are required by law to wear life jackets at all times while aboard a boat.

For information about these programs and other opportunities, contact the Auxiliary flotilla in your area, or visit Alaska’s District 17 Website, http://a170.uscgaux.info/. Regarding vessel examinations, you can also contact the U.S. Coast Guard captain of the port in your sector.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian volunteer component of the Coast Guard. Its 29,00 members support the active duty Coast Guard on missions including public education, vessel examinations and safety patrols.