Reilich Reminder: Boating Safety Courses Are Offered

May 23, 2005

Assemblyman Bill Reilich (R,C,I-Greece) today reminded constituents that a boat operation safety certificate may be obtained by completing the New York Safe Boating Course, sponsored by the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

"This course teaches the basics of safe boating," Reilich said. "I encourage all those who frequent our waterways to enroll in a boat safety class."

Reilich noted individuals must hold boating safety certificates if they:

• Operate a personal watercraft (PWC), regardless of age, in New York
• Operate a motorboat, including PWC, and are at least 10 years old but less than 18 years of age
• Are under 10 years of age and only if someone either over the age of 18 or someone between 10 and 18 with a safety certificate is on board. Anyone may operate a PWC if someone at least 18 years old with a safety certificate is riding on the craft.

Course availability and registration details are available by visiting the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Web site at www.nysparks.state.ny.us. A boating safety certificate may also be obtained through the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadron, and information about those groups’ courses is available by calling toll-free (800) 336-BOAT (2628).

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