The Monica Burguera Foundation and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary are conducting a free one-day program for a boating safety course.<\/p>\n
The course is scheduled from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., on Feb. 7, at the Key Biscayne Yacht Club.<\/p>\n
The curriculum includes introduction to boating, personal safety, boat handling, navigation, experiencing boating problems, radiotelephone, water sports safety and legal requirements.<\/p>\n
The state of Florida requires individuals operating boats to complete a boat safety program including an exam.<\/p>\n
If they pass, the USCG awards them with an Auxiliary Certificate of Accomplishment and the Florida Boaters’ identification card, which is required to operate a vessel for people born after or on Jan. 1, 1988.<\/p>\n
Some insurance companies offer 10 to 15 percent discounts on boat insurance to individuals who present their certificate.<\/p>\n
The Foundation hosts fundraisers to foster boating safety education in memory of Monica Burguera, a 20-year-old Florida International University student who died in a boating accident in 2006.<\/p>\n
The tragedy occurred during the Columbus Day Regatta weekend festivities, which also took the life of James Noel Pou and left others with severe injuries.<\/p>\n
Burguera’s family and friends decided to honor her memory by launching the foundation to underscore the importance of boating safety.<\/p>\n
Since 2013, more than 10,000 people have completed the boating safety program and are certified to safely operate a boat.<\/p>\n