FAU HOSTS EVENT FOR NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK

WHAT: Florida Atlantic University will host a Safe Boating Week event, featuring experts on boat safety, equipment demonstrations and free literature.

WHEN: Wednesday, May 26
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

WHERE: FAU Breezeway
Boca Raton campus
777 Glades Road

COST: Free and open to the public

CONTACT NUMBER: 561/297-1178

DESCRIPTION: According to 2002 statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard, Florida ranked number one in the number of boating accidents, injuries and property damage reports/dollar values. Further, Florida had the second highest number of fatalities during boating incidents, with 52 lives lost in 2002.

Many boating accidents could be preventable if people had the right training and consistently practiced safe boating practices.

FAU will bring representatives from several local agencies, including the Coast Guard Auxiliary, Boca Police Marine Unit and lifeguards, to educate the public on waterway safety for a wide range of water recreation. The event will include free literature on topics such as essential equipment, life jackets, regulations, operator responsibility, precautions, canoes, kayaks and jet skis. Those who visit the breezeway may sign-up for a free Vessel Safety Check from the Coast Guard Auxiliary. In addition, boating safety classes are also available from the Coast Guard Auxiliary. A class schedule is available at www.cgauxboca.org. If someone cannot attend the scheduled classes, a free online course is available at www.boatsafe.com.