To all the newer boaters (like me),<br /><br />Last weekend I went to the National Capitol Boat Show and ended up talking to some of the USCG guys at their booth. They were really stressing how important it is to take a boating safety class - which I'm sure most, if not all people here will agree with. <br /><br />They had some papers about where to go for local classes but also directed me to www.boatus.org where I can take the same class online and also print my certificate after I pass.<br /><br />I didn't think a class would really apply to me because I've got a small boat (12 footer) and can't do a lot of the things with it that the big boats can. But, being an internet junkie, I went to check it out just for fun anyways and learned that the class did apply to me and I'm glad I took it.<br /><br />The online class is free and really was interesting. It didn't take long and I did learn a few things. So, if you haven't got certified, do yourself and your fellow boaters a favor and check it out. <br /><br />Happy boating!
For her everything is new. I actually learned something too
about storing a compass on its side.<br /><br />The guest speaker last week (on the topic of safety equipment) is involved with the Power Squadron, the USCG program, a bunch of vessel safety and inspection programs, very active locally in safety issues
proceeded to pull a 25mm flare gun out, immediate putting her finger on the trigger, and waving it around the room pointing it at just about everyone. My heart started pound hard enough to scoot me around in my chair. After talking about flares for a few minutes, waving the flare gun around the whole time, she cracked the breech and a live shell popped out onto the floor!!! She didnt even know it was loaded!!! The whole time she had one finger on the trigger and her thumb on the hammer.<br /><br />I guess it isnt so much what you know, but how you use your knowledge. But maybe Im just a little overly sensitive. I used to teach firearms safety.