Take free boater safety course, get free admission to Pittsburgh Boat Show

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is offering a free boating basics class Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in conjunction with the Pittsburgh Boat Show that weekend at the Monroeville Convention Center.

Anyone attending the free class will also receive free admission to the Pittsburgh Boat Show, which is valued at $10.

Children under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Boating safety education certificates are required to operate a personal watercraft and for all boaters born on or after Jan. 1, 1982, operating vessels with motors greater than 25 horsepower.

This boating basics course covers six chapters of boating and water safety information followed by a 50-question multiple-choice test. A passing grade of 80% is required to qualify for a certificate.

To register, email mirsmith@pa.gov or call 814-443-9841 and provide the names of each person that will be attending the class.

More information about the Fish and Boat Commission’s basic boating classes and boating safety education certificates can be found on the agency’s website.