Coast Guard Auxiliary Running Boating Safety Classes

The local chapter of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is working to organize and hold boating safety classes all around Lake Hartwell.

Organizers said a class for this Saturday scheduled to take place in Toccoa at the Currahee Military Museum has been cancelled.

However, another class is scheduled for May 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Tugaloo State Park in Lavonia.

Coast Guard Auxiliary Public Education Officer Randy Williams said the class will teach basic boating safety and also update people on state laws.

“For example, it is now required by law that people born after 1/1/98 have a boater education card in the state of Georgia,” said Williams. “South Carolina requires it for anyone under the age of 16 to operate a personal watercraft or a boat over 16 feet or a motor over 30 horsepower.”

The cost of the class is $15 per person.

Williams said that covers a certificate and also the boater education card

He explained the class meets all of the requirements for both Georgia and South Carolina.

“These classes are certified by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators,” said Williams. “Our students will qualify for cards in Georgia and South Carolina.”

Williams went on to say that by taking a class, boaters may also make themselves eligible for boat insurance discounts.

More importantly, he said having an understanding of boating safety is essential before heading on the water.

“Operating a boat is far more difficult than operating a car,” said Williams. “It can be a very hazardous thing or it can be a very enjoyable thing. It is just plain common sense to learn what you are going to do before you do it.”

For more information on the boating safety classes put on by the Coast Guard Auxiliary, contact Williams at 706-491-9101.