MICHIGAN (WPBN/WGTU) — The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reminds Michiganders of boater protection certification as the warm climate starts to make a look.
The reminder comes during the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators Spring Aboard—Take a Boating Education Course marketing campaign.
According to the DNR, many states require the crowning glory of a NASBLA-proven course to hire or operate a powerboat.
In Michigan, boaters born after January 30, 1996, need a boating protection certificate to operate a boat.
Boaters born after December 31, 1978, want boating safety certificates to function as a non-public watercraft.
“If you’re at the water running a ship, or even a canoe or kayak, it’s your responsibility to do so adequately,” stated Lt. Tom Wanless, DNR Law Enforcement Division. “We strongly inspire new boaters to take a boater safety course so they’re privy to the dos and don’ts of the water. Even if you have been on the water for years, it’s important to refresh yourself on the ultra-modern policies.”
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, 2017 there were 4,291 recreational boating-associated accidents, 658 deaths, 2,629 accidents, and approximately 46 million dollars in belongings damage.
The USCG stated operator inattention, unsuitable lookout, operator inexperience, machinery failure, and alcohol use rank as the pinnacle five primary contributing factors in injuries.
The DNR offers boating protection training as a self-paced, online course and a traditional classroom experience.
