2/9/2007

Mandatory Boating Education Classes Set for 14- to 17-Year-Olds - Tom Keith

LINCOLN, Neb. – Classes are now forming for 14- to 17-year-olds who must successfully complete a boating safety course before operating a boat or personal watercraft in the state.

Everyone under 18 years of age who wants to operate a boat, including personal watercraft, in Nebraska must have successfully completed a boating safety course and have a valid boating safety certificate in his or her possession, according to Herb Angell, Nebraska Boating Law Administrator.

Angell says Nebraska law allows only people 18 years of age and older to operate boats, including personal watercrafts, in Nebraska waters. The only exception is for people ages 14 to 18 who have satisfactorily completed a boating safety course approved by the Commission and who have a valid boating safety certificate in their possession.

Nebraska recognizes the successful completion of certified boating safety courses in other states. It is important to note that completion of the Home Study Boating Education Course does not fulfill personal watercraft education requirements for persons under 18 years.

Here are the latest additions to the growing list of Boating Education classes scheduled across the state. For information regarding classes, contact your local Nebraska Game and Parks Commission office or check on the Boating page at www.OutdoorNebraska.org. Additional information will be posted as it is received, so check back often to learn about new classes forming in your area.

Newly scheduled classes include:

Feb. 15, 22 and March1 -- 6:30-9:30 p.m., National Safety Council, Greater Omaha Chapter,11620 M Circle, Omaha, to register contact Michael Bahr, (402) 689-5715, or mjbahr007@aol.com, registration fee $10.

Feb. 17 -- 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m, Willard Community Center, 1245 South Folsom Street, Lincoln, to register contact Mary Poe, (402) 540-3113, or http://a0853302.uscgaux.info, registration fee $10, bring sack lunch or lunch money.

Feb. 20 and 22 -- 6-9 p.m., Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center, 3600 N. Academy Rd., Grand Island, to register contact Daryl Teter, (308) 754-7829, no registration fee.