In the cold, wet days of winter, spring, summer and the call of the water seems far, far away.
But now is the time to educate yourself if you want to boat safely.
Volunteers from the Port Moody Power and Sail Squadron launched their spring boating course last week to a classroom full of eager students - and they have room for several more students at the Thursday evening classes.
The Canadian Power and Sail Squadron-sanctioned comprehensive boating course is essential for any recreational boater to ensure the safety of themselves, their family and others on the water. The course is not mandatory in B.C. but members of the not-for-profit squadron, who volunteer their time to teach the 13-week boating course, point to the many on-the-water tragedies and injuries that have increased on the province's waters in recent years as the best testimony for the need to take their boating course.
"We are all avid, experienced, boaters who want to see new boaters get off on the right foot," said Squadron Bridge member and volunteer training officer Bruce Leavitt says. "Our course helps ensure a safe boating experience for them, their family and friends.
"Also, we teach seasoned boaters who have not taken any courses like ours learn a number of new, indispensable tricks."
The course includes an on-the-water practical with numerous squadron members volunteering both their boats and time to assist students.
Port Moody Power and Sail Squadron was formed in 1975 and has more than 325 members and 200 boats from throughout the Tri-Cities. The main objective of the organization is to teach safe boating in a warm, social, environment and it offers numerous courses in this regard. The boating course is a prerequisite for membership.
For further information, visit www.portmoodypss.com.
