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Free boater course offered for safety certification

By Billie Owens

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,I,C -- Batavia), the Monroe County Sheriff's Parks and Marine Unit and the NY State Parks Police, will host a free boater safety course for the public on Saturday, June 20.

There is, however, a $10 fee to process a permanent boater safety certificate with the NY State Department of Parks.

It will be held at Hamlin State Park from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.. State law requires all boaters to pass an eight-hour boater-safety course, such as this one, if:

  • You operate a personal watercraft such as a jet ski, and are at least 14 years old.
  • And/or you wish to operate a motorboat, other than a personal watercraft, and are at least 10 years old but less than 18.

Anyone caught boating without a safety certificate may face fines and/or imprisonment.

“We are fortunate to live in one of the best tourist destinations in the Northeast. This summer, I encourage everyone to rediscover their own backyard and am inviting all boaters to join me at this free and informative event,” Hawley said.

Hamlin Park is located at 1 Camp Road in Hamlin and the course will take place in Shelter 1. Participants are encouraged to bring a bag lunch. To RSVP, contact Hawley's office at 585-598-5780.

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