DBW-50thAnnBook-PROOF

Law Enforcement Increases Safety on the Water The Boating Law Enforcement Training Program is available to the more than 100 public agencies that are responsible for enforcing California’s boating law. The training curriculum includes classes in boating safety and enforcement that are certified by the California State Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). These classes instruct officers on boating law, required equipment, boating under the influence, accident investigation, fire safety, personal watercraft operation (used for search and rescue), and coastal navigation. Cal Boating’s training curriculum has set the industry standard for law enforcement training, and the demand for training has grown substantially. The training program has become internationally recognized, with the department receiving interest from countries as far away as Australia. The department has responded to this demand by increasing the number of classes held each year and plans to add more in the future. Cal Boating’s Boating Safety and Enforcement Financial Aid Program provides $10.6 million each year to 38 local agencies for on the water boat patrols. Funds are used for enforcing boating laws, assisting boaters in distress, inspecting vessels, supervising organized boating events, and conducting search and rescue operations and the recovery of drowning victims. In addition, federal funds are used for equipment grants to local agencies for the purchase of patrol boats, trailers, engines, and other equipment necessary to ensure adequate law enforcement. Cal Boating Provides Consumer Protection Cal Boating’s Yacht and Ship Licensing Program currently licenses 450 yacht brokers and 750 salespersons in California. Similar to the law for

San Bernardino County Sheriff officer patrols the Colorado River. Of the accidents that occur on this river, 80 percent of the operators are from the Southern California area.

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50 Years: The Department of Boating and Waterways, 1957 to 2007