Memorial Day Boating Safety

Unfortunatley this Memorial Day Weekend in Iowa has been quite deadly on the water. Remember that there are a few things that can keep you and your family safe on the water:

1. Always wear a life jacket. Remember it is required that all kids 12 and under wear one, but parents and older brothers and sisters should too.

2. Do not drink and drive a boat. Alcohol has an even greater effect while boating than on shore due to the motion of the boat and the heat.

3. Take a boating safety class. You may think that you are a boating expert, but it never hurts to learn the rules of the road. Plus some insurance companies will offer you a discount on your boaters insurance. To find out when one is coming up e-mail us at boatingclass@flotilla4.org

4. Get a free vessel safety check. They are free and only take about 15 minutes. The Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Power Squadron both offer vessel safety checks that help boat owners to make sure that they have all of the required safety equipment to go on the water. Most boats that do not pass inspection are only missing a few things that cost less than $20. Also, some insurance companies will offer you a discount on your boaters insurance for passing the vessel safety check. To sign up to get a vessel safety check e-mail us at vsc@flotilla4.org.

Here are some safety tips on life jackets from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Last Course of the Season

Jeff Towle explains what a type I life jacket does during the About Boating Safety course.
(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Doug Jansen)

A boating safety class is a great way to cap off an operational season. This weekend Flotilla 4 hosted an About Boating Safely class at the Saylorville Lake Oak Woods Learning Center. The class is an introductory course designed to meet the boating education needs of recreational boaters.

The benefit to a face-to-face class is the ability to answer questions, demonstrate equipment and further explain the application of boating procedures. "Students were able to learn about boating and navigation rules, parts of a boat, proper operator safety and emergency procedures." said instructor Doug Jansen. Instructors for the class were Jeff Towle, Norma Newton and Doug Jansen.

Flotilla 4 will offer the About Boating Safety class again in May of 2010 at Saylorville Lake and Lake Red Rock.

About Boating Safely Class October 8th and 10th at Saylorville Lake

The Coast Guard Auxiliary will be offering the About Boating Safely class to the public. This class will be held in two parts:

Thursday, October 8th from 6:00 to 9:00 pm
Saturday, October 10th from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm


About Boating Safely includes a wide variety of information. Whether you choose a classroom boating class or your state's online course, you'll learn:

-General information about boats and maintenance
-Information on preparing for safe and enjoyable outings
-Navigation rules and aids to navigation
-Guidelines for operating your boat or PWC safely
-What to do in case of boating emergencies
-State-specific laws and regulations you must follow

In general, this information applies to all recreational watercraft (powerboats, PWCs, sailboats and boats which are paddled). PWC and Jet Ski operators often have additional laws and restrictions which apply to them.

The cost of the course is $20 and includes the book and certificate. If a family wishes to come together a discount can be requested. The class will be taught at the Saylorville Lake, Oak Woods Learning Center just south of the Corps of Engineers Station.

Pre-registration is required. Please call 515- 681 - 1725 or e-mail us at boatingsafety @flotilla4.org to register.

Coast Guard Auxiliary, Corps of Engineers and Iowa DNR Team Up to Make Water Safety Fun

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Iowa DNR and the Coast Guard Auxiliary teamed up to make water safety fun by having a water safety beach party at Sandpiper Beach at Saylorville Lake. The event was aimed at families with children to learn about water safety in a fun way.

There were several stations that kids both big and small could enjoy. Kids and parents got to learn how to toss a throw bag to a person in the water at one station. At another station kids got to get fitted for a life jacket so that they knew what size they needed. Kids got to also try out a third station known as the "Sink Fast" station where they learned what to do if their boat is sinking and how to quickly react. Finally, the Iowa DNR provided t-shirts for kids to design and make up with water safety themes.

Flotilla 4 member Brandon Butters served as the Coast Guard Auxiliary Project Officer for the event. Auxilarists Mary Kimmich, Jim Berry, Steve Johnson, Vic Voskans and Francis Meyrat participated in the event.

Bobber and Baseball: A Home Run for Water Safety

Park Ranger Emily Coffin, Saylorville Lake, helps a young Cubs fan try on a life jacket and adjust the straps for proper fit.
(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Marty Robey)

That do you get when you mix Bobber the Water Safety Dog and baseball? A home run at the Fifth Annual Water Safety Night at the Iowa Cubs game in Des Moines, Iowa.

This Annual Water Safety Night at the Iowa Cubs game was a joint event with the Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Park Ranger Emily Coffin and Elyse Logan along with Coast Guard Auxilarists Doug Jansen and Marty Robey promoted water safety to kids and adults prior to and during the game.

Bobber threw out the first pitch for the packed game between the Iowa Cubs and the Memphis Redbirds. After throwing out the first pitch Bobber roamed the stands and met kids of all ages.


"Bobber helped us make some great interactions," said Park Ranger Emily Coffin. "He helped us to drive home some important water safety messages, including to always wear your life jacket."

Hundreds of baseball fans stopped by the water safety display at the park to learn about life jackets, boating safety and to meet Bobber. Bobber helped to inform young children about water safety to help them make the right choices when they are around water. Life jackets were available for children to try on to get sized for a proper fit. Parents were given slips to indicate the correct size so that they can purchase properly fitted life jackets for their children. There was also a water safety activity where kids were asked water safety trivia questions to earn prizes.

"Our partnership with the Corps of Engineers for this event helps us both to get out the message about water safety," said Auxilarist Doug Jansen.

Later that night, Auxilarist Jansen spent some time in the broadcast booth with Deene Ehlis and Randy Wehofer, Iowa Cubs broadcasters, to talk about water safety with the listeners. The conversation emphasized the importance of wearing life jackets and safe boating practices.

The water safety night was a success, as hundreds of children and their families were exposed to water safety education as they geared up for the busy 4th of July weekend.

Bobber the Water Safety Dog poses for a photo at the Water Safety Night at the Iowa Cubs Game.
(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Marty Robey)

Despite Bad Weather, 15 People Complete Safe Boating Course

Auxilarists Jeff Towle (left), Norma Newton (center) and Ralph Tomlinson (right) speak with students during the Safe Boating Course at Lake Red Rock.

(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Suzanne Tomlinson)

Severe weather warnings did not deter 15 future mariners from attending the State of Iowa Safe Boating Course taught by members of Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 4.The class was held at the Lake Red Rock Visitors Center near Pella.

The class covered topics that included navigation rules, fueling, trailering, Iowa boating laws, the proper wearing of life jackets and the handling of boating emergencies. By completing the course, students earned the Iowa DNR Safe Boating Card.

Under the guidance and leadership of Auxilarists Norma Newton and Jeff Towle, all 15 future boaters passed the final exam.

Meanwhile, Auxilarists Ralph and Suzanne Tomlinson conducted voluntary Vessel Safety Checks at Lake Red Rock for local boaters. Despite a very poor forecast, six vessels were inspected by the duo.

Auxilarist Ralph Tomlinson (left) prepares to inspect a PWC at Lake Red Rock.
(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo by Suzanne Tomlinson)

Memorial Day Weekend Wraps Up With Vessel Safety Check Day at Big Creek State Park

On the Memorial Day Flotilla 4 went to Big Creek State Park near Polk City, IA and had a Vessel Safety Check Day at the Lake. Four Auxilarist Vessel Examiners participated in the activities. Vessel Examiners, Chuck Brudtkuhl, John Hawkinson, Doug Jansen and Phil Patterson, conducted over 20 Vessel Safety Checks throughout the day, educating many boaters on boating safety issues. This was the first time this season that Flotilla 4 was at Big Creek and probably not the last time.

The next schedule Vessel Safety Check Day is at Lake Red Rock on June 7th in conjunction with a Boating Safety Class at the Red Rock Visitors Center.

Spring Into Safe Boating Results In Over Ten Vessel Safety Checks

On May 17th Flotilla 4 and Flotilla 6 collaberated with the Corps of Engineers for the "Spring into Safe Boating” activity at Saylorville Lake. This activity was in conjunction with National Safe Boating Week.

Despite inclement weather, Flotilla 4 and Flotilla 6 conducted over ten Vessel Safety Checks at the Lakeview and Cherry Glen Boat Ramps.

A Vessel Safety Check is a free courtesy examination of your boat (Vessel) to verify the presence and condition of certain Safety Equipment required by State and the Federal regulations. The Vessel Examiner is a trained specialist and is a member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. They will also make certain recommendations and discuss certain safety issues that will make you a safer boater.

This is not boarding or a law enforcement issue. No citations will be given as a result of this encounter. We will supply you with a copy of our evaluation so that you may follow some of the suggestions given. Vessels that pass will be able to display our distinctive VSC decal. This does not exempt you from law enforcement boarding, but you can be prepared to make this a positive encounter.

If you are interested in a free Vessel Safety Check please contact us at fso-ve@flotilla4.org.

Safe Boating Course Begins

As part of National Safe Boating Week, Flotilla 4, the Iowa DNR and Corps of Engineers are hosting a free Boater Education Course. The course is being held over three consecutive evenings at the Saylorville Lake Visitor Center on May 18, 19, and 20 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. The course currently has five students participating.

The course is designed to promote safe and responsible boating practices and to instill a sense of responsibility while making the students aware of their actions and potential consequences of these actions. This course meets the State of Iowa requirements for any person 12 years of age or older but less than 18 years of age to operate any vessel propelled by a motor of more than ten horsepower.

Our next course will be Sunday, June 7th at Lake Red Rock. E-mail boatingclass@flotilla4.org for details.

New Vessel Examiners

Congratulations to Chuck Brudtkuhl and Doug Jansen, Flotilla 4's newest Vessel Examiners! They both completed the Vessel Examiner Course and their trainee Vessel Safety Checks and have been approved by the Coast Guard to complete Vessel Safety Checks!

Coast Guard Auxiliary and Iowa DNR Promote Wearing Your Life Jacket

Auxilarists Wendy Faganel (above) and Phil Patterson (below) paint the yellow base for a "Life Jacket Zone" sign at Big Creek State Park.

(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo / photo by Suzanne Tomlinson)

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary have partnered in a program to increase public awareness of boating safety. This spring, signs are being painted on all DNR maintained boat ramps reminding boaters that life jackets need to be worn when boating.

The signs declare the ramp to be a "life jacket zone". The first set of Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteers, Flotilla 4 of Des Moines, joined Susan and Donise of the Iowa DNR at Big Creek State Park to begin the painting project. After dividing up the paint, templates, food and other essentials, two groups set out to various State Parks. Susan pointed out which parks and where each boat ramp was located in the park.

When painting just the third sign of many, a boater and his son appeared at the ramp for a little fishing. They both donned their jackets and Alex Whitney modeled his for the group. Remember that Iowa's new law is that any child 12 or younger is required to wear a life jacket.

The painting lasted until nightfall, with over 24 ramps being painted today with more to come at a later date.

Susan Stocker of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (left) and Auxilarist Paul Faganel (right) lay the template for the "Life Jacket Zone" sign at Big Creek State Park.

(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo / photo by Suzanne Tomlinson)

A completed "Life Jacket Zone" sign at Big Creek State Park
(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo / photo by Suzanne Tomlinson)

A painting team finishes a "Life Jacket Zone" sign. Susan Stocker of the Iowa DNR (upper left) with Auxilarists (left to right) Paul Faganel, Wendy Faganel, and Ralph Tomlinson.
(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo / photo by Suzanne Tomlinson)

Coast Guard Auxiliary Works With Iowa DNR To Promote Life Jacket Safety

This weekend members of Flotilla 4 will hit the road to begin a water safety project with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. These Auxilarists and DNR personnel will travel to various state boat ramps throughout Central Iowa to help paint stencils onto the ramps to encourage boaters that they are entering a “life jacket zone.”

"As part of this state-wide project, there are approximately 140 boat ramps located within 45 different state parks. Painting a large 'Life Jacket Zone' sign directly on the ramps will help to remind boaters to protect everyone aboard their boat by wearing life jackets.” says Auxilarist Wendy Faganel, Auxiliary project coordinator.

The project is expected to last over a month and involve several Coast Guard Auxiliary flotillas in Iowa.

Auxilarist Jeff Towle shows the stencil for the boat ramp painting project to
members of Flotilla 4.
(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo / Photo by Doug Jansen)

One of the stencils for the boat ramp painting project with the Iowa
Department of Natural Resources.
(U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Photo / Photo by Doug Jansen)

Iowa DNR Boating Education Course

In conjunction with the Corps of Engineers, Flotilla 4 will be conducting the Iowa Boater Education Course on May 18-20, 2009 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. This is during National Safet Boating Week. This safe boating course lets you get your Iowa boating safety certification card so that you can comply with Iowa boater education law.

Students must attend all three sessions for certification. To register for this course contact Jeff Towle at jtowleATflotilla4.org.

After Recent Boating Tragedy, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Focuses On Public Boating Safety

After the tragic boating accident involving two NFL players and their friends off of the Florida Coast this week, many boaters may have boating safety on the mind. Are you prepared for the worst?

Flotilla 4 of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is here to help local boaters through our Boating Education and Vessel Safety Check Programs.

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Boating Education courses provide instruction to boaters at all levels, from the fundamental to the advanced. Our courses are taught by experienced and knowledgeable instructors committed to the highest standards of the U.S. Coast Guard.

A Vessel Safety Check is a courtesy examination of your boat (Vessel) to verify the presence and condition of certain safety equipment required by State and Federal regulations. The Vessel Examiner is a trained specialist and is a member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. They will also make certain recommendations and discuss certain safety issues that will make you a safer boater.

This is not boarding or a law enforcement issue. No citations will be given as a result of this encounter. We will supply you with a copy of our evaluation so that you may follow some of the suggestions given. Vessels that pass will be able to display our distinctive VSC decal. This does not exempt you from law enforcement boarding, but you can be prepared to make this a positive encounter.

To learn about upcoming Boating Education Classes in your area or to request a Vessel Safety Check go to www.flotilla4.org.

Flotilla 4 Offers Suddenly In Command Course

Flotilla 4 will be hosting the Suddenly Command Course at Valley Southwoods in West Des Moines from 7 to 9 pm on April 16 and April 23.

SUDDENLY IN COMMAND: The captain becomes incapacitated or falls overboard; you purchase a new boat and step aboard for the first time. You are Suddenly In Command.

This 4-hour boating safety primer is designed for those not generally at the helm, and will help you to “be prepared” with the basics in case of an emergency.

You will learn about your vessel, including nomenclature and operating principles including starting the engine. Also included are descriptions of what causes boating mishaps and how to minimize them, basic boat handling and what equipment should be on board.

Literature contains many horror stories about a passenger, who does not know how to start the engine or operate the radio, watching in horror as a strong wind blows the boat away faster than a captain who has fallen overboard can swim.

Misfortune occurs in seconds, and you have the rest of your life to be grateful that you knew what to do because you were prepared.

About Boating Safely Course Coming Up

Flotilla 4 will be hosting an About Boating Safely course at Valley Southwoods in West Des Moines . It will be held over seven consecutive Tuesday evenings.

About Boating Safely includes a wide variety of information. You will learn about:

1. General information about boats and maintenance
2. Information on preparing for safe and enjoyable outings
3. Navigation rules and aids to navigation
4. Guidelines for operating your boat or PWC safely
5. What to do in case of boating emergencies
6. State-specific laws and regulations you must follow

In general, this information applies to all recreational watercraft (powerboats, PWCs, sailboats and boats which are paddled). PWC and Jet Ski operators often have additional laws and restrictions which apply to them.

Class dates are:

March 24
March 31
April 7
April 14
April 21
April 28
May 5

For registration information please contact Norma Newton.