The United States Power Squadrons is offering boating courses across the entire U.S. during National Safe Boating Week-May 20-26. "NSBW has been a major factor in the very low accident and fatality rates in boating," said Ernie Marshburn, Chief Commander of this 50,000 member organization. "However," continued Chief Marshburn, "with many new boaters entering the market each year, there is an urgent need for boating education. USPS is stepping up to the plate with a coordinated offering to the public at the start of the boating season - just when families are getting ready to take to the water."
Dick Kyle, National Educational Officer, adds, "we've asked our 450 squadrons to reach out to the public with extra programs during this important week. These boating courses, seminars and demonstrations offer valuable skill building information, incorporating the latest marine technology, for both experienced and new boaters." Kyle points out that "USPS is the only organization instructing on the use of digital charting. With free chart downloads now available from the NOAA web site, these programs are particularly relevant. NOAA - The National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration manages the nation's nautical chart program".
USPS offers basic boating courses meeting certification requirements in virtually every state. These programs go above and beyond the minimum and are aimed at building skills and confidence for full enjoyment of this family sport. During National Safe Boating Week, many squadrons will be offering seminars on topics such as GPS and the use of nautical charts and performing demonstrations of various boating and safety equipment. To find and pre-register for a basic boating course being offered visit: www.usps.org/d_stuff/locate.html
The United States Power Squadrons is the largest and oldest boating organization in the country, providing boating education since 1914. Today, local squadrons in the U.S., U.S. territories and Japan, provide a wide range of programs - educational, public service and social programs - for all types of recreational boaters - paddlers, sailors and power boaters - on all types of waters. Member programs range from seamanship to celestial navigation, as well as such vital topics as weather, sail, cruise planning, marine electronics, and shipboard mechanical systems. USPS has also authored a series of guides available on retail bookshelves and in marine centers
To reach USPS and obtain more information call 1-888-FOR-USPS, (1.888.367.8777) or log onto www.usps.org.
