The daylong U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary’s Boating Safety Class returns to Redstone Arsenal on July 26.

“Boater safety courses are crucial for preventing accidents, promoting responsible navigation, and ensuring a safer environment on the water for everyone,” said Tom Pyburn, the business manager for Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation’s Outdoor Recreation.

Last year there were 81 recreational boating incidents in Alabama, with eight deaths and 43 people injured, according to the Coast Guard. That compares to 58 incidents in 2023 and 12 deaths.

The class instructors are from the Coast Guard Auxiliary, Redstone Flotilla.

The class is being held at Outdoor Recreation, 5139 Sportsman Road, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The cost is $15 and includes course materials.

“Students will be issued a certificate of completion of the boater safety class,” Pyburn said. “Certified completion of the course fulfills one of the requirements to add boating privilege to Alabama driver’s licenses for boat operators, and the certification most often results in a discount to the boat owner’s insurance.”

Redstone Flotilla Commander Erik Nielsen said the class will cover an introduction to boating safety, boating rules and regulations, mandatory equipment and safe operation including trailering, launching and recovering a boat.

“We’ll also cover basic maintenance and what to do in case of an emergency,” said Nielsen, who will be one of the instructors.

To register or for more information, call Outdoor Recreation at 256-876-4868. 

The course is limited to 40 participants.