Summer is here and many are heading to the lakes and rivers for recreational and fishing boating. We want to remind everyone that New York State law requires boaters and Personal Watercraft (PWC) operators to be at least 10 years old accompanied by a person holding a NYS Boater Safety Card over the age of 18; or 14 years old and passing the NYS Boater Safety Course. The course is offered throughout the summer in many locations and may be taken online through a NYS approved site. The US Coast Guard approved course covers the many aspects of boating and handling water emergencies. A lifetime NYS card is issued or it may be added as an Anchor icon on your NYS Drivers ID.

Remember to always wear a life preserver on a boat, watch for inclement weather, and never operate a watercraft while under the influence of drugs. To review boater safety, go to this Boater Safety Site and review the Study Materials.