With the boating season underway, it is crucial to be well-equipped and prioritize the safety of both your loved ones and fellow boaters. Learn more about the recent law changes surrounding boating safety certificate requirements.
With the joy and beauty of boating also come responsibilities, including the safety of everyone on board and your fellow boaters. In recent years, the state of New York has taken significant steps to enhance boating safety through legislation such as Brianna's Law. Strong's Marine prioritizes safety for all of our boaters. Learn more about the implications of this legislation and how to make sure you are prepared for the changes.
Understanding Boater's Safety Courses
In New York, as in many other states, completing a boater's safety course is often a mandatory requirement for individuals operating certain types of watercraft. These courses cover a range of topics crucial for safe boating, including navigation rules, emergency procedures, the proper use of safety equipment, and the dangers of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Boater's safety courses aim to educate boaters of all experience levels, from novices to seasoned veterans, on the best practices for ensuring a safe and enjoyable outing on the water. By equipping boaters with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate safely, these courses play a vital role in reducing accidents, injuries, and fatalities on New York's waterways.
The Evolution of Brianna's Law
Brianna's Law, named in memory of Brianna Lieneck, a young girl who tragically lost her life in a boating accident on Long Island in 2005, represents a significant milestone in New York's efforts to enhance boating safety. The law, which was signed by Governor Andrew Cuomo in 2019, mandates that all operators of motorized vessels complete a boater's safety course.
One of the key provisions of Brianna's Law is its phased implementation schedule, which began in 2020 and extends over several years. Under this schedule, individuals born on or after January 1, 1993, were required to complete a boater's safety course to operate a motorized watercraft.
After 2025 all individuals will be required to have a boating safety certificate.
Impact on Boater's Safety Courses
Brianna's Law has prompted greater collaboration and coordination among government agencies, boating safety organizations, and other stakeholders involved in promoting safe boating practices. These efforts have led to the development of standardized curriculums, improved access to educational materials, and enhanced outreach initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of boater's safety.
Looking Ahead
Make sure to secure your boating safety certificate ahead of the mandatory 2025 deadline. Strong's Marine is here to help provide resources for boating and are happy to announce that Strong's Marine is offering Safe Boating America classes for boating safety at our Mattituck location on Long Island.
By ensuring that all individuals operating motorized vessels have received proper education and training, the law aims to reduce the number of boating accidents and fatalities, ultimately making the state's waterways safer for everyone.
Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a novice navigator, taking a boater's safety course is not just a legal requirement; it's an essential step in protecting yourself, your passengers, and others who share the water with you.
Follow these steps to get out on the water safely in no time:
1) Find a Boating Safety Course - Strong's Marine is offering Boating Safety Courses in April and May for our clients and community. Click here to learn more and register.
2) Complete the Boating Safety Course - The boating safety course will teach you about the rules of the water, boat safety, and emergency procedures. The course typically takes 6-8 hours to complete. This course can be completed in just one day using Safe Boating America's Boating Safety Course offered at Strong's Marine Mattituck, NY.
3) Pass the Boating Safety Exam - Once you have completed the boating safety course, you will need to pass the boating safety exam. The exam is 60 multiple-choice questions and you must answer at least 48 questions correctly to pass.
4) Get Your Boating Safety Certificate - Once you have passed the boating safety exam, you will be issued a boating certificate.