For More Information Contact:
Captain John Watterson, 845-486-3860
Dutchess County Sheriff Kirk A. Imperati announces that over the next several months Marine Patrol Deputies will be instructing New York State Safe Boating Courses for the purpose of educating boaters and assuring safe and lawful operation of all vessels in compliance with Brianna’s Law.
Brianna’s Law is named after Brianna Lieneck, who was an 11 year old girl from Long Island, NY that was killed in a boating accident in 2005. Brianna’s Law phases in mandatory completion of a New York State Safe Boating Course for all persons who operate motorized vessels. Failure to comply with this law could result in a fine between $100 and $250.
Any person wishing to operate a vessel who is born on or after January 1, 1978 will need a Boating Safety Certificate as of 2024. All operators of motorized vessels, regardless of their age, will need a Boating Safety Certificate beginning in 2025.
The Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit will be conducting multiple NYS Safe Boating Courses. Attendees must attend all 8 hours of the course for successful completion. All courses will be held at the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office Law Enforcement Center Community Room at 108 Parker Avenue in the City of Poughkeepsie on the following dates and times:
Course 1:
Saturday, March 30th from 8:00 am -5:00 pm
Course 2:
Friday, April 12th from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Saturday, April 13th from 8:00 am -12:00 pm
Course 3:
Saturday, April 27th from 8:00 am -5:00 pm
Course 4:
Friday, May 3rd from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Saturday, May 4th from 8:00 am -12:00 pm
Course 5:
Saturday, May 18th from 8:00 am -5:00 pm
Course 6:
Saturday, May 25th from 8:00 am -5:00 pm
There is no fee to attend, however registration is required due to limited availability for each session. If you would like to register for a course, visit the following website: Upcoming Events - New York Safe Boating Course (register-ed.com). If you have questions or need assistance, please contact the Sheriff’s Office at 845-486-3840.
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