Channel Islands Harbor 45-Foot Response Boat-Medium file photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class DaVonte Marrow
SAN PEDRO, Calif. — The Coast Guard is opening its doors at Station Channel Islands Harbor to the public to promote boating safety Saturday.
On May 18-24, the Coast Guard joins the safe boating campaign to kick off National Safe Boating Week promoting safe and responsible boating.
“We want to emphasize the importance of proper safety equipment and one of the most important pieces of safety gear, is your life jacket,” said Henry Goldman, the Safe Boating Expo chairman. “Bring in your old worn out life jacket and receive a new one while supplies last.”
Expired flares will be accepted for proper disposal by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Bomb/Arson Unit and in return receive a discount coupon for new ones.
During the 14th Annual Safe Boating Expo, the public will be able to tour a Coast Guard 87-foot patrol boat and a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium. These crafts are critical to search-and-rescue, maritime law enforcement and national security.
To date, Coast Guard Station Channel Islands Harbor has accepted more than 2,000 expired life jackets.
To sign up for a free vessel safety examination, please visit Safe Boating Expo.
For more information on boating safety, please visit the U.S. Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division.
