Free Boater Safety Courses Coming To North Hempstead: What You Need To Know

NEW HYDE PARK, NY. — The Town of North Hempstead announced Tuesday that it would be offering a trio of free New York Boating Safety Courses at Michael J. Tully Park in New Hyde Park this spring.

The courses are being offered in a partnership between Supervisor Jennifer DeSena’s office, the North Hempstead Town Board, North Hempstead DPW and New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, town officials said, adding that a boating safety course is required for anyone who wants to operate a personal watercraft in state waters when the time comes this summer.

“Believe it or not, boating season is already right around the corner,” DeSena said. “Before you take to the seas, make sure you sign up for one of our three convenient sessions at Tully Park and learn how to protect yourself and those you share the water with.”

The course will take eight hours to complete, and will be offered from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Mar. 21, Sunday, Apr. 19 and Saturday, May 16. Town officials say the course will teach attendees about responsible boating, rules of the nautical road, proper use of safety equipment, special boating-related activities and more, giving attendees a safe boating certificate. Registration ahead of time is required to attend one of the courses. Michael J. Tully Park is located at 1801 Evergreen Ave. in New Hyde Park.

Finally, town officials said all attendees are required to be at least 10 years-old.