A Note from the Executive Director
As we wind down what is the traditional summer boating season, we are reminded that half of the country enjoys year-round boating. The NSBC is your resource hub, and we’ve added new content based on survey feedback from you - such as launch signs, youth books, social media images, photography, and more! For example, with the new launch signs, we are helping you make contact with boaters at their point of entry with a reminder to wear a life jacket, a caution about carbon monoxide safety, and information about common regulatory buoys in the area. Be sure to become a partner of our Safe Boating Campaign, and you’ll receive email alerts to access new content.
The NSBC team developed a new animated video series and filmed a live-action video series at one of our favorite U.S. Army Corp of Engineers lakes this summer. You can find these videos and more at www.BoatOnCourse.com. Please share this free educational resource to help educate the novice boater about navigation rules.
While our on-water training has consistently run through the pandemic, requests for the NSBC Instructor Certification have skyrocketed, and we are hosting courses nationwide. Interested candidates should visit the NSBC website, or contact our office for a schedule. I’d like to give special thanks to the BoatU.S. Foundation for providing the NSBC’s Boat Control On-Water Training curriculum directly to recreational boaters. They continue to build their network of schools nationwide, and we continue to create a safer boating culture through hands-on training.
The NSBC headquarters is now located in the beautiful coastal boating community of Clearwater, Florida. If you live nearby, or find yourself headed this way, please stop in and see our office and warehouse. We can load you up with resources, and there’s a bakery right next door!
We look forward to seeing many of you at the NASBLA conference in New Hampshire!
Safe boating,
- Peg Phillips
Keep Your Waterways Safe All Year
The National Safe Boating Council partners with Walsh Marine Products to remind boaters one more time after they launch to wear their life jackets. By placing WEAR IT logo buoys at each of your launch sites or docks, boaters are not only alerted to start watching the buoys along the waterways, but to put that life jacket on. Walsh Marine is excited to offer increased customization, shorter lead times, and new pricing on the buoys and barrier floats you need to keep waterways marked and safety top priority.
- W961R (9” X 61”) Regulatory Buoy – now $140.00/EA
- W1362R (13” X 62”) Regulatory Buoy – now $260.00/EA
- W1428 models (14” X 28”) Float Collar Buoys – now $310.00/EA
Ask us about more NSBC member perks and shop at WalshMarine.com.
A Look Back at Summer On-Water Training
The National Safe Boating Council and our team of instructors continued to meet the high demand for on-water powerboat instruction this summer. We help cultivate a safer recreational boater experience by training responsible boaters through our two courses that meet the American National Standard for on-water power skills – Boat Control On-Water Training and NSBC Instructor Certification.
During Boat Control On-Water Training, boaters progress through four modules covering an introduction to powerboating, precision docking and boat handling, open water boat handling, and open water advanced maneuvers. Each maneuver is repeated, advancing from idle speed to displacement mode, then planing mode. The NSBC’s largest provider of Boat Control On-Water Training is the BoatU.S. Foundation, providing training to thousands of boaters each year.
"I’d like to give special thanks to BoatU.S. Foundation for providing the NSBC’s Boat Control On-Water Training curriculum directly to recreational boaters," said NSBC Executive Director Peg Phillips. "They continue to build their network of schools nationwide, and we continue to create a safer boating culture through hands on training."
Only NSBC certified instructors may teach the Boat Control On-Water Training course. All NSBC instructors have undergone rigorous training during the National Safe Boating Council Instructor Certification course. This is taught in a train-the-trainer model, progressing from close quarter maneuvers at idle speed, to maneuvers in displacement mode, and to advanced open water maneuvers. Upon successful completion, NSBC instructors are certified to teach Boat Control On-Water Training. Interested candidates should visit the NSBC website to learn more and to submit a candidate application.
“We have experienced tremendous growth in the demand for the NSBC Instructor Certification course and have trained instructors around the nation this year. First responders on marine patrol, boat clubs, powerboat rental agencies, and licensed captains are seeking NSBC certification because they know this certification brings credibility and integrity to on-water training,” said Phillips.
NSBC Instructor Trainer Captain Chris Day has experienced high demand for on-water training this season, sharing it has been “a wild and busy year.” Captain Day has trained instructor candidates for the NSBC across the country, and his local BoatU.S. Foundation training location saw triple the number of students from last year.
“The demand for on-water training is so high right now, we consistently have students travel up to 100 miles to take one of our classes,” said Captain Day.
Between certifying instructors and teaching the Boat Control On-Water Training course, Captain Day has completed over 250 classes this year. His favorite course this year was with the Coral Restoration Foundation.
“I had the opportunity to complete two instructor certification courses with the Foundation. They are always an awesome group to work with. I love their mission and learned how it positively impacts our ocean environment. And, who doesn’t love the Keys?”
Captain Day owns Georgia Boat Safety and Training, TowBoatUS Lake Allatoona, GA, and most recently, TowBoatUS Lake Logan Martin, AL. He also works closely with the BoatU.S. Foundation, and has been nicknamed the “Real Deal” by NSBC staff because of his authentic passion for keeping boaters safe on the water.
Part of being the “Real Deal,” Captain Day and his crew are known for encouraging the next generation of safe boaters, handing out #WearItChallenge coins to young boaters seen wearing their life jackets on Lake Allatoona. Over one thousand challenge coins have been handed out, and that number continues to rise!
Captain Day is on mission to reach as many boaters as possible to ensure they know how to operate a powered vessel properly, effectively, and safely. During each of his on-water trainings, he encourages instructors to practice what they preach, and to always wear a life jacket. “I try to take the stigma out of not wearing a life jacket,” he says. “Life jackets are cool!” The last two lessons Captain Day leaves with his instructors: “Life jackets only work if you wear them, and slow is pro; faster is disaster.”
Ryan Dilkey, NSBC instructor and associate director of the Eckerd College Waterfront Program, has also witnessed the high demand for on-water powerboat instruction this summer. The Eckerd College Waterfront Program is one of the most comprehensive collegiate programs in the U.S., offering instruction in a variety of watersports to participants of all ages, from children to seniors. Located at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, FL, the school provides the perfect environment for learning watersports on the beautiful Boca Ciega Bay.
The NSBC's Boat Control On-Water Training curriculum is the baseline on-water training for students, staff, and faculty who operate powerboats at the college. The curriculum is also used as the prerequisite required for (EC-SAR) students who wish to further their skills by continuing into Coxswain training. At this level, students begin to pilot rescue vessels during training, patrols, and Search and Rescue (SAR) case responses.
This year was the first year the curriculum was also incorporated into a Science of Seafaring course, in which students experience an academic blend of the past, present, and future of scientific discovery on, in, and under the ocean’s surface, with the practical experience of operating small powerboats. The course holds 18 seats and was filled to capacity every time the course was offered. Ryan is looking forward to continuing with this approach in the future.
This summer, Ryan and crew have been thrilled to return to business as usual, easing off of COVID-19 restrictions. The Eckerd College Search and Rescue program saw a return to 24/7 response to boaters in need, and was able to offer recreational activities to students, faculty, staff, and alumni including paddlesports, sailing, fishing, wakeboarding, and more. In providing boating and water safety education through the college setting, Ryan most enjoys seeing alumni pass on the skills they learned during their time at Eckerd to their children and educating legacy children following in their parents’ footsteps.
“We have provided on-water training here at the Eckerd College Waterfront since our inception in 1971,” said Dilkey. “We have always believed that a blend of book knowledge, lectures, discussions, and underway practical skills is necessary to produce smart, observant, forward-thinking boaters that can use those skills to help others and continue enjoying the water safely in life after their time at Eckerd.”
Captain Sarah Lawrence initially became an instructor with the NSBC in 2019 in order to work with the on-water program for the BoatU.S. Foundation. In 2021, she became certified as an instructor trainer with the NSBC, and in early 2022, she opened the Chesapeake Boating Academy, an on-water training school on Maryland’s Eastern Shore in the Kent Narrows. The school offers the NSBC Boat Control On-Water Training course, and Captain Lawrence has personally trained over 50 students using the curriculum.
Upon opening the academy, Captain Lawrence purchased a 21-foot Hydra-Sports with a 150 outboard to use as a training vessel and immediately began upgrading the vessel’s systems with extra safety features. Aboard this vessel, all students are required to wear life jackets and wireless engine cut-off switch (ECOS) fobs. Students also have access to the Siren Marine app, a portable and waterproof carbon monoxide monitor, a VHF radio with Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI), a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and additional required and non-required safety equipment.
Captain Lawrence’s goal for training students is to create an inclusive environment where regardless of incoming boaters’ experience, everyone can feel comfortable learning, and leave a more knowledgeable, confident, and safe boater. She encourages all boaters to treat every day on the water as if it is their first.
“Never become complacent,” shared Captain Lawrence. “Always be prepared, check the weather and tides, and plan your day accordingly. At the end of the day, the best day spent on the water is one where safety is a priority, and everyone returns home happy and healthy.”
Ready to get equipped? Learn more about training opportunities with the NSBC at www.safeboatingcouncil.org/training/on-water-courses.
Do you or someone you know want to go through the Boat Control On-Water Training Course? Find an instructor in your area at www.safeboatingcouncil.org/find-an-instructor.
Tips for Fall Boating
Fall is one of the best times to go boating. As families continue to social distance, many predict the increase in boaters on the water will continue through the fall. Read these tips from the NSBC's Safe Boating Campaign, and don't miss out on NSBC member-exclusive discounts!
1) Fishing and hunting. Fall is one of the best times for fishing and hunting. Fish are migrating and feeding in preparation for winter, and waterfowl hunting is underway. Don't forget to always wear your life jacket, and share the details of your trip with a loved one before you leave. Encourage others to do the same with this camo Wear It logo from the Safe Boating Campaign! More resources at www.safeboatingcampaign.com
2) Boating gear. Make sure you have all the gear this autumn with these discounted products for NSBC members! Shop now at www.safeboatingcouncil.org/memberships/pro-deals. Discover deals from Athletic Brewing Company, FELL Marine, Mustang Survival, Sensorcon, TowBoatU.S., Full Throttle, Onyx, and more.
3) Fall colors. Beautiful autumn foliage outings are always special, but when seen from a boat, the experience can be magical. Check out these 10 beautiful spots to explore this autumn from our friends at Discover Boating.
4) Education. Get back to learning this fall by brushing up on your navigation knowledge, or becoming a NSBC certified instructor. Learn about training opportunities with the NSBC.
Get Connected: Use an Engine Cut-Off Switch
The NSBC's “Get Connected” campaign reminds boaters to use an engine cut-off switch (ECOS) every time they go powerboating to keep them and others safe on the water.
An engine cut-off switch attaches to the boat operator and cuts power to the boat’s engine if the operator is displaced from the helm. It also may be activated manually if needed in an emergency.
An ECOS can be a lanyard attached to the engine switch, or a boat may be equipped with wireless technology that resembles a key fob or wristband. There are many different options of ECOS that will best suit your boating preferences. Learn more at www.GetConnectedBoating.org.
Know Your Buoys
Buoys and channel markers function in a similar way to lanes on a highway — designating the safest navigable channel and marking any hazards on the water. The NSBC's Boat On Course program has a new educational initiative, Know Your Buoys, funded by a grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Know Your Buoys makes it easy for boaters to understand common buoys and markers by taking a practical approach to boating by relating it to something you’re already familiar with – the “rules of the road” when driving a car. While there are no painted lanes or traffic signals to follow on the water, you can avoid dangerous collisions by learning the rules of the road and some practical safety tips.
An educational toolkit is available to help boaters learn about buoys including a flyer, animated video series, and social media content. Each animated video is followed by a short quiz for boaters to test their knowledge. Resources are available at www.BoatOnCourse.com/buoys.
In addition, the NSBC partnered with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to design and distribute an educational sign about buoys that will be displayed at all 400 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' lakes. Thank you to Pam Doty for your continued partnership and support of the NSBC. These signs will be available in the NSBC online store in the coming weeks.
Robert Newsome Appointed to NBSAC
Robert Newsome, NMMA’s Senior Vice President of Operations, has been appointed to the National Boating Safety Advisory Committee (NBSAC). The Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard by delegation, consult with the Committee in prescribing Federal regulations, and regarding other major boating safety matters. The Committee has consistently provided invaluable advice to the Coast Guard on a broad range of boating safety matters. Newsome is widely recognized as an innovative leader and trailblazer within the recreational boating industry.
Save the Date for 2023 IBWSS
The International Boating and Water Safety Summit will be in Little Rock, Arkansas from April 16-19, 2023 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton. Get ready for an all-new program format revamped based on prior attendee feedback! Registration for IBWSS will open in Fall 2023. Learn more at www.IBWSS.org.
We’re looking for thought-provoking, innovative, and engaging sessions to support building partnerships and sharing knowledge within the recreational boating and water safety community. Do you have an inspiring keynote, successful outreach program, innovative product, or captivating panel discussion idea? Consider applying to be a speaker.
Waves of Hope
Waves of Hope is a coalition of forever-changed families and friends impacted by boating and open water tragedies. The National Safe Boating Council is providing eligible Waves of Hope representatives funding to serve as influencers in their local communities through programs, events, or other grassroots marketing efforts to further Waves of Hope.
Grassroots outreach applications must include specific program(s), event(s), or outreach effort(s) that share about Waves of Hope and recreational boating safety. This may be virtual or in-person outreach opportunities, and may also include paid marketing efforts. Priority will be given to applications that demonstrate: building community engagement, accomplishing specific goals, and communicating about recreational boating safety. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Submitting an application does not guarantee funding. Deadline to apply is December 1, 2022.
Status reports are required following a template provided by the National Safe Boating Council if awarded a grant. Any marketing resources developed with the funding must be approved by the the Council. If you have any questions concerning this application or other resources provided by the Council, please email inquiries to outreach@safeboatingcouncil.org.
Waves of Hope and this grassroots grant project are produced under a grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.
NSBC Warehouse Sale
Be ready for outreach events throughout the year with these items in the NSBC Store. Shop at www.safeboatingcouncil.org/shop.
Youth Books: Let's Go Boating and ABC's of Boating are colorful and fun books to educate primary and secondary school aged children on safe recreational boating.
Boating Safety Flyers Box: In this box set, you will receive a variety of educational brochures to support your outreach efforts. Includes educational messaging on common buoys and makers, engine cut-off switches, life jacket labels, fire extinguishers, and trailer/launch a boat from U.S. Coast Guard funded programs (Get Connected, Know Your Buoys, and the Safe Boating Campaign).
Safe Boating Campaign Box: In this box set, you will receive a variety of items while supplies last. Your box set may contain dry bags, stickers, button pins, wristbands, patches, and more.
Welcome to Safe Lakes Marine Products
A big welcome to our newest Admiral Club member, Safe Lakes Products! This is the highest tier of membership with the NSBC.
Safe Lakes Marine Products / Safe Lakes LLC is a women owned, small business located in Wisconsin founded by a sailing director who has been involved with multiple programs across the USA for over 15 years. Her passion for safety, boats, and sailing has turned into the mission for Safe Lakes LLC.
Safe Lakes LLC offers ECOS, prop guards, life jackets, and other safety products at https://safelakes.com/.
Admiral Club Members
Mariner Club Members
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Credits:
Newsletter from the National Safe Boating Council