Coast Guard Auxiliary safe boating class announced
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Flotilla 91 Fort Myers Beach, has announced a boating safety class for Saturday, Aug. 16 at Pine Ridge Community Center, 15660 Pine Ridge Road, Fort Myers. The U.S. Coast Guard, which was founded in 1790, will also be celebrating Coast Guard Day on Aug. 4.
“On Coast Guard Day, we honor the selfless men and women who serve on the front lines,
ensuring the safety and security of our maritime domain,” said Robert Guenthner, Flotilla
Commander, Flotilla 91 Fort Myers Beach. “Their unwavering commitment to duty, whether
responding to emergencies, enforcing maritime law, or protecting our marine environment, is truly commendable. As the Auxiliary, we are proud to support their critical missions and
contribute to their success.”
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, comprised entirely of dedicated volunteers, plays an integral role in supporting the Coast Guard’s missions. Locally, Flotilla 91 Fort Myers Beach actively engages in performing search and rescue support, promoting recreational boating safety, environmental protection, offering public education courses and conducting safety patrols.
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Flotilla 91 Fort Myers Beach, will hold a comprehensive “Boat America” safe boating class on Saturday, Aug. 16. This essential course aims to equip local boaters with the knowledge and skills to navigate safely, underscoring the critical fact from the 2024 Florida FWC accident statistic report that most boating accidents are preventable.
Far too often, boating incidents result from a lack of education or awareness. This “Boat
America” course directly addresses these common pitfalls by covering fundamental topics
crucial for responsible boating. Participants will learn about boating laws, safety equipment
requirements, navigation rules, emergency procedures, and how to handle various on-water
situations.
“We believe that an educated boater is a safe boater,” said Guenthner, Flotilla
Commander, Flotilla 91 Fort Myers Beach. “The vast majority of boating accidents, injuries, and even fatalities could be avoided with proper training. This class is an investment in your safety, your passengers’ safety, and the safety of everyone on the water.”
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Florida consistently leads the nation in boating accidents and fatalities. The FWC’s 2024 Boating Accident Statistical Report highlights concerning trends:
685 reportable boating accidents occurred in Florida in 2024.
81 fatalities were reported in 2024.
A staggering 65% of operators involved in fatal accidents had no formal training.
Drowning remains the leading cause of death, with many fatalities preventable by simply wearing a life jacket.
This class offers essential training, including the FWC Boaters Card, and is a crucial step towards a safer boating environment. Your platform has the reach and influence to inform and protect countless individuals in our community.
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive an FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) Boaters Card, which is often required for certain age groups to operate a vessel in Florida waters.
Learn more about the Coast Guard Auxiliary at www.cgaux.org
Class Details:
What: Boat America Safe Boating Class
When: Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Where: Pine Ridge Community Center, 15660 Pine Ridge Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Cost: $45 (includes FWC Boaters Card)
Registration: Interested individuals are encouraged to register in advance at
https://www.aux91fmb.org/safeboating/
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take the proactive step to enhance your boating knowledge and contribute to a safer environment on our waterways.