Imagine a beautiful day on the water when suddenly the boat’s captain becomes incapacitated. Would you know what to do?
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, in partnership with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, will host a “Suddenly in Command” seminar from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 16th, at the Sheriff’s Community Outreach Center at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Suite 190, Estero.
The event is part of the Sheriff’s “Lunch and Learn” series and will provide participants with practical knowledge on what to do in an emergency if the skipper cannot operate the boat. Seating is limited. To register, email glevine@sheriffleefl.org.
The seminar is designed for boaters, non-boaters and passengers alike. Participants will learn how to:
- Recover a person who falls overboard
- Determine the vessel’s location
- Call for help using a marine radio
- Stop, maneuver and anchor a vessel
- Start and operate an engine safely
“Preparation is key,” said Daniel Eaton, Coast Guard Auxiliary public affairs officer, Fort Myers Beach. “This class empowers passengers with the skills and confidence they need to take control in an emergency and summon help before a bad situation turns worse.”
The Coast Guard Auxiliary emphasizes that the ability to stabilize a chaotic situation can mean the difference between a safe rescue and a tragic outcome.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Community Outreach Centers serve as hubs for community engagement, providing opportunities for law enforcement and residents to connect through safety education, training and outreach.