{"id":313556,"date":"2026-06-19T21:46:10","date_gmt":"2026-06-19T21:46:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/313556\/"},"modified":"2026-06-19T21:46:10","modified_gmt":"2026-06-19T21:46:10","slug":"u-s-coast-guard-auxiliary-to-hold-responsible-boating-course-fort-myers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/313556\/","title":{"rendered":"U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary to hold responsible boating course – FORT MYERS"},"content":{"rendered":"


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The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Fort Myers Beach is holding a boat safety training course on Friday, Photo by Nathan Mayberg<\/p>\n


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With Southwest Florida\u2019s waterways experiencing a surge in summer boat traffic, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 91 on Fort Myers Beach will hold a \u201cBoat America\u201d Responsible Boating Course Saturday, June 20. The NASBLA-approved program is designed to prevent accidents, lower emergency response strain, and equip local boaters with life-saving navigation skills.<\/p>\n

As thousands of residents and visitors take to Florida waters this season, the line between a successful day on the Gulf and a maritime emergency often comes down to basic education. The upcoming eight-hour course provides an essential toolkit for navigating Southwest Florida\u2019s tight channels, busy passes, and unpredictable summer weather patterns.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoating is a core part of our community\u2019s lifestyle, but crowded waters demand heightened situational awareness,\u201d said Gary Martell, Flotilla commander. \u201cOur goal is to transform potential \u2018near-misses\u2019 into controlled, safe maneuvers. This course goes beyond legal compliance \u2014 it builds the confidence families need to safely enjoy our waters.\u201d<\/p>\n

The comprehensive course is taught by experienced Coast Guard Auxiliarists and covers vital topics, including:<\/p>\n

\u2022 Mastering the official \u201cRules of the Road\u201d to avoid close calls with other vessels.<\/p>\n

\u2022 How to handle sudden squalls, mechanical failures, and unexpected medical scenarios.<\/p>\n

\u2022 Proper usage of life jackets, marine fire extinguishers, and legally required safety gear.<\/p>\n

\u2022 Staying compliant with federal and Florida state boating laws to avoid heavy fines.<\/p>\n

In addition to vital safety knowledge, many marine insurance providers offer premium discounts to boaters who successfully complete this approved course.<\/p>\n

The one-day \u201cBoat America\u201d Responsible Boating Course on June 20 will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Pine Ridge Community Center, 15660 Pine Ridge Road, Fort Myers. The cost is $45 per person.<\/p>\n


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