Boat America Boating Safety Course Coming to Putnam Valley
As boating season approaches, now is the perfect time to make sure you are prepared, informed, and certified before heading out on the water.
The Boat America course is a comprehensive boating safety class designed to help participants gain the knowledge needed to obtain a boating certificate. Whether you are a new boater, a returning boater, or someone looking to refresh your safety skills, this course provides valuable information for operating safely and responsibly.
In New York State, all motorboat operators are required to complete a boating safety course and obtain a boating safety certificate. Taking this class is an important step toward meeting that requirement while also helping protect yourself, your passengers, and others on the water.
Some insurance companies may also offer discounts on boating insurance to boaters who successfully complete the course.
Course Topics Include:
Participants will receive instruction on a wide range of boating safety topics, including:
- Introduction to Boating
Types of power boats, boating vocabulary, sailboats, paddle boats, engine types, and more. - Boating Law
Boat registration, regulations, hull identification numbers, required safety equipment, federal and state boating laws, and accident reporting. - Safety Equipment
Life jackets, fire extinguishers, sound producing devices, visual distress signals, anchors, and other important safety equipment. - Safe Operation and Navigation
Buoys and beacons, aids to navigation, navigation rules, docking, and the dangers of alcohol use on the water. - Boating Emergencies
Hypothermia, boating accidents, man overboard situations, capsizing, emergency radio calls, carbon monoxide dangers, and weather awareness. - Trailering
Trailer types, lights, hitches, and safe towing practices. - Sports and Boating
Water skiing, personal watercraft operation, hunting gear, and additional boating tips.
Course Details
Course: Boat America
Presented by: Flotilla 014-06-04, Verplanck, NY
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Duration: 8 hours
Location: Putnam Valley Ambulance Corps
218 Oscawana Lake Road
Putnam Valley, NY 10579
Cost: $45
Register By: Thursday, May 14, 2026
Parking and entrance are located at the rear of the building. Participants should bring their own lunch.
Register Today
Residents and boaters are encouraged to sign up early, as registration is required by Thursday, May 14, 2026.
For registration and course information, please contact:
Gene Yetter
Email: yettergt@gmail.com
Phone: (914) 523-9747
Do not wait until boating season is fully underway. Get certified, stay informed, and help keep Putnam Valley’s lakes and waterways safe for everyone.
