Guidelines for boating under Covid-19 - here and here
There are several keys to staying safe while on the water. Among these,
boaters are encouraged to take a boating safety course, become familiar with
the boating state laws & regulations, know the "Rules of the Road", learn at
least basic navigation, familiarize yourself with local navigational
hazards, wear a lifejacket, get a free vessel safety check, file a float
plan, know the current and predicted weather conditions, and boat sober.
Boater education prevents accidents and saves lives.
Here are some resources to help you stay safe, and become a more confident
boater.
Boat On Course - Educational boating safety videos from the National
Safe Boating Council, teach the basic navigation rules of boating. Watch at
your own pace, and test your knowledge at the end of each video.
Float Plan - Complete this
float plan before you go boating and leave it with
a reliable person who can be depended upon to notify the Coast Guard, or
other rescue agency, should you not return or check-in as planned. If you
have a change of plans, or will be delayed, notify the person holding your
Float Plan. Additional information here.
IMO Home page - The International Maritime Organization is the United Nations' specialized agency responsible for improving maritime safety and preventing pollution from ships.
Massachusetts Boating Accident Report (BAR) - A BAR is required by the USCG
(Fed33 CFR part 173) and by MGL CH90B§9(b) by any numbered vessel or any
vessel used for recreational purposes that is involved in an accident that
results in death, disappearance, injury beyond first aid or property damage
in excess of $500.00.
National Water Safety Program - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one
of the nation’s leading provider of outdoor recreation with over 400 lake
and river projects in 43 states and more than 250 million visits per year.
Please be careful in and around the water because even strong swimmers
drown. Check out this website to find valuable tips and resources that could
save your life or the life of someone you care about.
Operation Dry Water - Operation Dry Water (ODW) is a year-round boating
under the influence awareness and enforcement campaign. The mission of ODW
is to reduce the number of alcohol- and drug-related accidents and
fatalities through increased recreational boater awareness and by fostering
a stronger and more visible deterrent to alcohol use on the water.
Safe Boating Campaign -
A program of the National Safe Boating Council. The Safe Boating Campaign is a worldwide effort
focused on responsible boating, encouraging boaters to always wear a life
jacket while on the water.
Sea Tow Foundation - For Boating Safety and Education. Sea Tow
Foundation is the nonprofit part of the Sea Tow Family. We work to prevent
recreational boating accidents and fatalities.
U.S. Coast Guards Boating Safety Division - The U.S. Coast Guards
Boating Safety Division (CG-BSX-2) is dedicated to reducing loss of life,
injuries and property damage that occurs on U.S. Waterways by improving the
knowledge, skill and abilities of recreational boaters.
Vessel Safety
Checks - A Vessel Safety Check is a courtesy examination of your boat
(Vessel) to verify the presence and condition of certain Safety Equipment
required by State and the Federal regulations.
Boating Safety Courses
Boaters Tests by
BoaterEd.Com - Rules of the Road Test, Navigations Lights Test,
Navigation Test, AB Seaman's Test and Safety Test
Boatwise® - Captains License Classes, Safe Boating Basics Classes - Classes in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island
New England Maritime - Captains
License and Boating Safety Courses in Hyannis, MA, Marshfield and Marina
Bay, Quincy. Courses may be offered at your facility with a minimum number
of students.
United States Power
Squadrons - We offer a wide range of boating courses and seminars for
all levels, including boat handling, navigation, boating rules and
regulations, marine electronics, boat maintenance in the classroom, online,
and on the water.
U.S. Coast Guard
Auxiliary - U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary boating courses provide instruction
to boaters at all levels, from the fundamental to the advanced. Our classes
are taught by experienced and knowledgeable instructors committed to the
highest standards of the U.S. Coast Guard.
