On Water Training Program

Early in 2001 the United States Coast Guard (USCG) approved a new Auxiliary Public Educaton Program for On Water Training (OWT). This initiative will allow the Auxiliary to conduct Public Education (PE) classes on Operational Facility (OPFAC) vessels. The future of OWT is contingent upon a demonstrated record of safety and effectiveness. The primary concern, in every action taken in the OWT program, will be to CONDUCT SAFE AND EFFECTIVE OWT EXERCISES.

1.. This program is designed to introduce members of the boating public to good boat handling methods and local area familiarization. It utilizes Auxiliary Operation Facilities as its base to guarantee that all necessary safety equipment is at hand and those in charge of the vessel are competent.

2.. This is an observational program only. At no time are members of the public allowed to handle the lines, vessel or equipment except to examine a particular item. All underway duties and responsibilities are with the crew and coxswain.

3.. The program is clearly set out in a manual obtained from the National Website under Member's Deck-> Departments-> Education-> PE Library->Publications->
OWT->New OWT Manual, or MFAQs.
Crew, Coxswain, and program Instructor should be completely familiar with its requirements.

4.. All attendant forms regarding liability are to be completed for every participant prior to departure from the dock. Please note the Commandant's letter on page 2 that addresses this issue. We have the support of DIRAUX.

5.. This program was carefully crafted to handle all legal and liability issues. Those who feel otherwise, while entitled to their opinion, may opt not to participate.

6.. This program has a tremendous success rate for those flotillas that utilize it. Reports of as much as 50% of those who participate become active Flotilla members.

7.. Non-reimbursable orders for the vessel are used and the fee charged the participants must cover the cost of vessel operation. These orders are and should be available. If difficulty is encountered, Operational personnel are asked to contact DIRAUX immediately.

8.. This is a terrific program dedicated to Recreational Boating Safety. I will be setting up the initial OWT and request that coxswains who are interested in participating let me know. I am currently working on a syllabus which will cover the time, cost, areas to be covered, etc unique to our flotilla. If you have questions concerning this operation, let me know.

August 2003 - The new and much revised OWT manual was available. Download your copy from the site below. The manual includes all new liability releases, sign-up and permission forms as well as new exercises and much more streamlined program management.
http://www.cgaux.org/cgauxweb/home_frame_955a.htm

Judi Bidwick:
oseajudi@comcast.net