Even some places in the Southwest may have ice and cold temps, beginning soon. If you are in one of those locations, as you patiently wait for the ice to thaw or the weather to warm up so you can finally get your boat back on the water again, here’s an idea.

Why not use the down time productively and take a boating safety class conducted by your local Coast Guard Auxiliary flotilla?

Also, Arizona Game & Fish Department, the Phoenix Power Squadron, and the Lake Pleasant Sailing Club all offer classes that are referenced each month on page three of AZBW/WOT.

The Coast Guard Auxiliary offers numerous boating courses for the public, but you may want to go with the basic “About Boating Safely” course or the more in-depth “Boating Skills & Seamanship” course as a refresher prior to the start of your boating season.

“About Boating Safely” is an eight-hour beginner boating class designed to give you the knowledge needed to obtain a boat license or safety certification in many states. Many boat insurance companies will offer discounts on boating insurance to boaters who successfully complete “About Boating Safely”.

“Boating Skills & Seamanship” is a more comprehensive, multiple session program designed for both the experienced and the novice boater. The course consists of eight core-required two-hour lessons plus five elective lessons, providing up-to-date knowledge for safely handling boats in all conditions.

To find a Coast Guard Auxiliary flotilla in your area offering boating safety courses, go to CGAUX.ORG, click on “Units,” “Flotilla Finder,” then enter your zip code — a listing of flotillas within your vicinity will be displayed.