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USPS®'s
Boating Course and Boat
Smart
The Squadron Boating Course, and the Boat Smart course are traditional civic services of USPS, a volunteer not-for-profit nationwide organization. Our instructors are all experienced boaters with instructor certification from The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the United States Power Squadron. The Texas Water Safety Act requires all operators of Personal Water Craft (jet skis), powerboats of ten horsepower or more and sailing vessels of more than fourteen feet in length must follow these criteria: *If an operator is less than 13 years of age, he or she must be accompanied on board the vessel by someone 18 years of age or older. *If operator is 12–18 years old, he or she must be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older OR must have successfully completed an approved boater safety class. This class fulfills the requirement for the Texas Lake and Sea Waters. Boater Education Training is recommended for all boat operators and required for those under 18 years of age. Since 1914 local squadrons have presented these courses to anyone who wished to attend - to date more than 3 million people. Designed to be useful to all boaters, from the fisherman in an outboard to the skipper of a large cruiser or sailboat, the courses are meant to be of interest to the entire family; older children are welcome. We encourage your family to attend as a group.
Each course includes homework questions at the end of each section to assist retention of the information presented. The Squadron Boating Course covers additional topics not otherwise presented in Boat Smart, such as an introduction to reading charts and plotting courses. |
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Looking for a Home Study Course? A home-study multimedia course, America's Boating Course, is also available, and has been jointly produced by the United States Power Squadrons and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. For more information, please browse to www.americasboatingcourse.com. |
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| Need to Create a Float Plan?
A "Float Plan" is a document that helps your friends and loved ones understand your cruising plans and intentions. In addition, you'll probably find it useful for planning your cruise itinerary, safety equipment and provisions. There are many possible formats for a Float Plan; the right one for you is one you'll actually use. After completing your Float Plan, be sure to leave copies with your neighbors, co-workers and family! Note: The linked web page is located on the USPS National Web Site. |
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