Get carded!

Boaters need card by September 15. The deadline is approaching for all recreational boat operators of any motorized watercraft to have a “Pleasure Craft Operator Card.”

Those not having the card by September 15 face fines of not less than $250.

Those among the 10 million boaters who don’t have the card, can go online to www.BoaterEx am.com or to www.BoatSmartExam.com to get certified.

This involves answering at least 27 questions correctly on a 36-question exam which deals with topic such as navigation rules, marker buoys, required safety equipment and emergency preparedness.

The card, once obtained, is good for life.

“We recognize many boaters may not have taken an exam in more than 20 years,” says BOATsmart! Canada president Cameron Taylor.

Boaters can also take the exam at BOATsmart! Sites.

In this area, the closest would be Wabasca, Athabasca, Westlock or Lac La Biche. Another option is to call the Boating Safety Infoline at 1-877-792-3926, seven days a week.