MONROE — It’s not too early to get your boater education card if you’re planning to hit the water this summer.
Spring usually brings a flood of applications, said Patrick Gjerde, a firefighter and rescue boat instructor with Snohomish County Fire District 3 in Monroe.
He recommends people avoid delays by getting their boater education done by early spring at the latest. Getting it done now will help you be prepared as boat laws become more stringent over the next few years, he said.
“The training program really is informative and very helpful,” he said.
About 25 people die in boating accidents in Washington every year, he said. Many more are injured. The training helps people understand boating rules and the risks of the water.
A $10 boater education card is good for life — and cheaper than the $87 fine for not carrying one, Gjerde said.
The opening day of boat season will arrive sooner than you think, he said.
“The water’s cold, but everyone loves to go out on boats,” he said.
For more information on boater education, go to www.boatered.org.
For information about interactive training, contact the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadron or your local marine law enforcement.
Boaters also should go to www.parks.wa.gov/boating/ or call 360-902-8555. Home study and online options are available, in addition to traditional classroom courses.
Rikki King: 425-339-3449; rking@heraldnet.com
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