Boater safety course offered

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Alton Pool Flotilla 34 is hosting a Boat America boater safety course at the Rend Lake Visitor Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 22.

The successful completion of the course results in a boater safety certificate. In Illinois, those born after Jan. 1, 1998, are required to complete the course to operate a boat. Many insurance companies offer discounts on boat insurance to boaters who successfully complete the Boat America course. The $25 course fee includes the Boat America textbook with study guide, course exam, Boating Safely certificate, and a Boating Safely wallet card. There is a $5 additional fee for each additional person after a textbook has been purchased, which covers the exam, certificate and wallet card.

This in-depth boating safety course provides essential boating knowledge that enhances a boater’s experience. The course covers general boating terms, boating laws and regulations, boating equipment, navigation rules, locks and dams, operating a vessel safely, anchoring, personal watercraft, and more. Participants should bring a lunch. The full day must be completed to obtain the certificate.

Pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register, email Larry Miller at eljayem@gmail.com or call 618-616-9415. For more information, call 618-724-2493.