OLYMPIA – March 28, 2011 – With the opening of boating season a couple months away, The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office and the Washington State Parks Boating Programs remind boaters about the importance of taking a boating safety course and the requirement to obtain a Boater Education Card.
Washington boaters are required by law to take and pass a boater education course and have their education card with them when operating a boat of 15 horsepower or more in Washington waterways. In 2011, boater’s ages 12 to 35 years are required to carry the card when operating a boat. Soon the law will also apply to older boaters. The card requirement is phased in through 2014. Boaters born before Jan. 1, 1955, are exempt.

Spring is a good time for boaters to prepare for a safe and fun boating season. Boaters that have safety training are less likely to end up in accidents on the water. To meet the new education requirements, boaters can take approved courses in a classroom, online or by taking a home study course. Once the course is passed, boaters pay $10 for the card, which is good for life. The majority of in-person classes are offered between the fall and spring months, with fewer classes available during summer months. Course topics include basic boat handling, safety equipment, navigational rules and boating emergencies. Information is available online at www.parks.wa.gov/boating or call (360) 902-8555.