Boating Safety Course?

[webmaster]

If the MMLA were to arrange for a boating safety course this summer, would you be interested? If so, what dates and times would work for you?

It may not be possible to find a qualified instructor who is available, but the MMLA would like to gage interest before investigating further.

[Saki-to-Me]

I think it would be a good idea.
As far as time and dates, some Saturday during black fly season might be a good choice.

[cameraeye]

I would be interested. Weekends.

[kras39215]

Great idea

What age group would the course include - could our soon to be 13 year old participate.

As weekend only visitors, how long would the course be, would it be completed over one weekend or several?

[DownhillRacer247]

Great idea

What age group would the course include - could our soon to be 13 year old participate.

As weekend only visitors, how long would the course be, would it be completed over one weekend or several?
im sure he would be able to participate and the course would help him to be safer on the waters as long as he is driving a 25hp or under. Otherwise you have to be 16 to get your liscense. Even if he is going to be driving 25hp or under im sure its still a good idea:)

[Bob]

Hi,

I took a Coast Guard course which I think covers me but, if it doesn't, I don't have to get it until 2008. I still think it would be a great idea. Even those that are covered can always use a refresher course. I also have some family members that use the house at the lake -- and of course want to take the boat out! I will have to say no to the boat this year unless they take and pass a course. I'm sure I'm not the only one in this situation. If the Association was to offer a course, I'd suggest it be held on a weekend in mid to late June, before the boating season really gets going, and be opened up to the general public. A reasonable fee could be charged.

Bob

[webmaster]

As you can see from the first post above, this topic was discussed briefly at our first MMLA meeting last year. While the Marine Patrol has indicated in the past that we might be able to have a class at the lake, it would require that we can guarantee enough attendance for them to free up a teacher for that session.

As you can see if you follow the link below, the sessions are usually offered in 2 formats; a full day session going from 9-4:30, or 2 3.5 hour sessions. If we could get a session at the lake, my assumption would be that we would need to go for a full day, weekend session.

http://www.state.nh.us/safety/ss/documents/basicboating.pdf

If there is enough interest indicated here, I will investigate whether we can make it happen this Spring.

Bob, a previously issued Coast Guard certificate does qualify you under the NH provisions.
"Any person who holds a certificate issued from any state that meets or exceeds the requirements of the Boating Education Law (is NASBLA approved) shall be exempt. New Hampshire will accept proof of certification issued by another state."
But you need the certificate. It isn't good enough just to have taken the course. As you note, it might be easier for you to take the online test as a refresher and get your official NH license. More info available here http://www.state.nh.us/safety/ss/boatedla.html

[webmaster]

I did investigate and, as I suspected, all teachers for these courses are fully booked teaching the classes already scheduled. For those with an interest, I suggest using the link above to find a class convenient for your time and location. They fill up fast so move quickly if interested.