National Safe Boating Week

National Safe Boating Week

Prairie du Chien – The U S Coast Guard Auxiliary marks the start of National Safe boating Week with the safe boating course “Boat America” to be held on Saturday May 17, 2025 at Clayton Ridge High School. The class, which starts at 8AM covers all facets of basic and safe boating and meets state requirements for those needing a safe boating certificate

National Safe Boating Week, a nationwide event, runs from May 17th thru the 23rd.

Time on the water can be great fun but only if done safely. An accident can ruin the day. Start the season by ensuring that both you and your boat are prepared for the season. Both adults and children need to be properly educated on the rules for a safe adventure on the water. Start by attending a boating safety course, even though you may have been boating all your life you might be surprised as to what you have forgotten or what has changed. Not to mention the many safety improvements made over the years.

To register for the Guttenberg class contact Joanie at 608-996 2152 or Sully at 319-290-6403. Cost is $15.00 for materials.

Next obtain a Vessel Examination. They are voluntary, free and will help you ensure you have all the necessary equipment on board for safe operation on the water.

US Coast Guard Statistics reveal that drowning was the cause of death of three out of every four fatal recreational boating fatalities and that 87% of those who drowned were NOT wearing life jackets. In a recent boating accident, a group anchored to fish were struck by another vessel. Three fishermen died, the bodies of two were recovered from the lake bottom by divers.

A life jacket does you no good if you are not wearing it when you need it. Like your seat belt in your car, once the accident occurs it is too late to put it on.

Have a fun and safe summer and we’ll see you on the river.

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The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the U.S. Coast Guard and supports the Coast Guard in nearly all mission areas. The Auxiliary was created by Congress in 1939. For more information, please visit www.cgaux.org