Florida's high rate of boating
incidents and fatalities underscores the urgent need for enhanced
boater education. The Central Florida Boating Association (CFBA),
in partnership with the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC), is
launching a Boat Control On-Water Training program to improve
boating safety across the state. By equipping boaters with
essential skills, CFBA aims to reduce accidents and fatalities,
ensuring a safer boating environment in Florida.
BELLE
ISLE, Fla., July 9, 2024
/PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Florida
often ranks among the highest in the nation for boating accidents
and deaths, emphasizing the critical need for enhanced boater
education. The Central Florida Boating Association (CFBA), a local
non-profit, is partnering with the National Safe Boating Council
(NSBC) to address this issue. Together, they are introducing a
nationally recognized On-Water Boat Training program in
Central Florida.
"Whether you're new to powerboating or
looking to refine your skills, our boating safety courses will
boost your confidence on the water," added Rice. "Our Instructors
are licensed Captains and have undergone extensive training to
provide top-notch boating education to our community."
According to the US Coast Guard's 2023 statistics, 75% of
boating deaths occurred on boats where the operator had no boat
safety training, while only 15% of fatalities involved trained
operators. This stark contrast highlights the life-saving potential
of proper boating education.
"We continually see Florida
lead the nation in the highest number of boating fatalities," said
Michael Rice, President of CFBA.
"Our boating lessons aim to provide boaters with the skills and
knowledge necessary to navigate safely."
CFBA's program follows the American National Standard for
on-water power boating skills. Each course provides personalized,
small-group instruction with a 1:4 instructor-to-student ratio. Led
by licensed captains, this hands-on training enables boaters to
practice essential maneuvers and enhance their boat handling
skills. Participants can choose to complete one or all four
available courses using either their own boat or a boat provided by
CFBA.
"Whether you're new to powerboating or looking to refine your
skills, our courses will boost your confidence on the water," added
Rice. "Our Instructors are experienced captains and have undergone
extensive training to provide top-notch boating education to our
community."
Training the Next Generation: Additionally, CFBA's Skipper Club
offers powerboating courses and sailing lessons designed for youth
ages 14+. These courses teach young boaters and sailors important
skills to navigate the water safely, covering safety protocols,
boating maneuvers, and control.
"We are excited to welcome CFBA as a course provider and
appreciate their dedication to boating safety," said Peg Phillips, Executive Director of NSBC. "Our
network of course providers and certified instructors play a
crucial role in creating a safe boating environment for
recreational enthusiasts."
Both the NSBC and CFBA strongly recommend boaters of all ages
undergo proper instruction and education before heading out on the
water.
About the Central Florida Boating Association:
The Central Florida Boating Association (CFBA) is a non-profit
organization focused on improving boating in Central Florida through education, advocacy,
and community involvement. They work with national and local groups
to keep waterways safe, support boating enthusiasts, teach young
boaters, and build a strong boating community.
For further details, please visit www.CFLBoating.org or contact
CFBA at info@cflboating.org.
Media Contact
Captain Michael Rice, Central
Florida Boating Association, 1 407-205-2654, info@cflboating.org,
https://www.cflboating.org/
View original content to download
multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/florida-boating-accidents-highlight-need-for-enhanced-education-central-florida-boating-association-launches-on-water-powerboat-training-302189688.html
SOURCE Central Florida Boating Association